This summer there is a risk of queues and disruption for the introduction of the new European ETIAS and EES border processing regulations.
Significant delays and passenger frustration
We have already reviewed the two new systems that will change border processing for visa-exempt travellers entering Europe: the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) and the Entry/Exit System (EES). But recently problems have arisen at a number of European airports, leading to significant delays, growing passenger frustration and even missed flights.
Severe disruption in quiet winter periods
The EES officially kicked off on 12 October 2025, while the ETIAS is scheduled to launch in the third quarter of this year, but recent system failures have already caused severe disruption in airports during traditionally quiet winter periods.
Lisbon Airport had to suspend operations
In December, Lisbon Airport was forced to suspend EES operations for three months after “serious deficiencies” led to passenger queues of up to seven hours. With summer traffic into Europe expected to be significantly heavier and dominated by leisure travellers using the system for the first time, these early failures raise serious concerns about the readiness of EES for the peak season.
ETIAS is a security check
ETIAS is an online pre-travel authorization, expected to come into force in late 2026. It is not a visa, but a security check that travellers must complete before travelling to 30 European countries. The fee will be €7, and once approved, ETIAS will normally be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
The entry/Exit System uses biometric data
ETIAS does not involve fingerprinting or photographs. Instead, biometric data will be collected under a separate system called the Entry/Exit System (EES). This system will register fingerprints and a facial image the first time a non-EU traveller enters the Schengen Area, replacing the current system of manual passport stamping. The biometric registration will be valid for three years, and subsequent entries should be quicker as travellers will be able to use automated e-gates where available.
The EES will replace passport stamping
Once EES is fully implemented, passport stamping will end, but there is no confirmed date for this yet, and the rollout will be gradual rather than immediate. Trials and early testing of EES have already caused long delays at some airports, even during quieter travel periods. These issues are now raising concerns about peak summer travel, when many holidaymakers may be using the system for the first time.
Countries can decide to delay or suspend the EES
To manage these challenges, the EU has adopted a flexible, phased approach, allowing individual countries to delay, limit, or temporarily suspend EES operations if necessary. As a result, manual passport checks and stamping may continue at busy times or in certain locations during the transition period. As the run-in to the peak-season starts and demand starts ramping up, airport management companies are keeping their fingers crossed that they can keep operations running smoothly throughout the summer period.
