Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, Italy Tipped to Make Airport Rule Change for UK Tourists
In a move that could significantly ease travel for British holidaymakers, Spain, Portugal, Cyprus, and Italy are reportedly considering scrapping the new Entry and Exit System biometric requirements for UK tourists. This development follows Greece's recent decision to suspend these rules, aiming to reduce long passport control queues and streamline the arrival process.
Greece Leads the Way in Suspending Biometric Checks
Greece became the first country to officially exclude British passport holders from biometric registration at its border crossing points, effective from April 10th, 2026. The Greek Embassy in the UK confirmed this blanket lifting of the Entry and Exit System requirements, stating it applies to both arrivals and departures at Greek airports.
Eleni Skarveli, director of the Greek National Tourism Organisation in the UK, emphasized that this change is designed to ensure a smoother and more efficient arrival experience in Greece. She noted that it is expected to significantly reduce waiting times and ease congestion at airports, which is crucial for popular destinations like Corfu, Crete, Rhodes, Kos, and Mykonos.
Speculation Grows Over Other European Hotspots
According to reports from The Connexion, there is now speculation that Portugal, Cyprus, and even larger countries such as Spain and Italy could follow Greece's example. However, it is important to note that no official plans have been confirmed yet, and there have been no reports of French airports or other mainland crossings persistently suspending Entry and Exit System checks for Britons or other third-nation citizens.
Nicolas Paulissen, general delegate of the Union des Aéroports Français, mentioned that many larger airports are temporarily turning off biometric registration for part of the day due to queues, but a full suspension for Britons this summer has not been announced.
Impact on UK Tourists and Travel Efficiency
The potential rule changes could mark a significant shift in how UK tourists experience travel to these European Union holiday hotspots. By scrapping the biometric requirements, countries aim to address the operational challenges posed by the new system, which has led to delays and frustration among travelers.
This move highlights the ongoing efforts to balance security measures with practical travel needs, ensuring that popular destinations remain accessible and enjoyable for visitors from the UK.
