The Foreign Office has issued an alert to British travellers heading to Portugal as new changes are set to affect flights to the country. The European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES) is now being implemented across the Schengen area, which includes Portugal.
What the Foreign Office Says
The Foreign Office stated: "This means that when you travel into the Schengen area for short stays, you may need to register your biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo." It added that there is no cost for EES registration.
"On your first visit into a Schengen country, you may be asked to register your details at a special booth before proceeding to the immigration desk. Follow directions from your travel operator or the staff at your port of entry. You may also need to provide either your fingerprint or photo when you leave the Schengen area."
Important Details for Families
Children aged 11 or younger will not have their fingerprints scanned but may be required to have their photo taken. The Foreign Office emphasised: "You do not need to take any action before you arrive at the border on entry to the Schengen area, but EES may take each passenger extra time to complete so be prepared to wait longer than usual at the border and to allow more time for immigration controls when you depart the Schengen area."
How the New System Works
The new EES system replaces the former manual stamping system used when visitors arrived in the Schengen area for short stays. Visitors may also be asked to input biometric details upon entering or exiting. It is important to note that the EES also affects those travelling into the Schengen area via ferry, car, or train.
The Foreign Office added: "If you enter the Schengen area through the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone or Eurostar at St Pancras International, any information will be taken at the border before you leave the UK. Your digital EES record is valid for 3 years."
Impact on UK Tourists
Portugal remains a popular European destination, welcoming millions of tourists every year, with a significant number being UK holidaymakers. In 2025, it is estimated that 2.5 million UK holidaymakers visited Portugal, and the hot destination is expected to see many more this year.
