The Foreign Office has issued a significant update for UK tourists planning to travel to Greece or any of its holiday islands. The much-criticised European Union Entry and Exit System (EES) is now operational across the continent. However, Greece has decided to suspend biometric checks following extensive queues at airports.
No Biometric Data Collection for UK Travellers
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) stated: "Greek authorities have indicated that they will not collect biometric data (fingerprints and photos) for UK travellers as part of EES." The FCDO advises travellers to follow guidance from local authorities and for Greek residents to present residence documentation at passport control to avoid being registered in EES.
A European Commission spokesperson confirmed that the Commission is in contact with Greek authorities, asserting that EES "is working very well in the overwhelming majority of member states." However, the spokesperson added: "The legal framework does not foresee blanket exemption for nationals of specific third countries and for an extended period of time."
Greek Embassy Confirms Exemption
The Greek Embassy updated its website on 17 April, stating that British passport holders arriving in Greece would not need to submit biometric data for the time being. "In the framework of the implementation of the Entry-Exit System, as of 10 April 2026, British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points," the embassy announced. No timeframe for the exemption has been provided.
Eleni Skarveli, UK director of the Greek National Tourism Organisation, welcomed the decision, saying it is "expected to significantly reduce waiting times and ease congestion at airports." She added: "UK travellers will no longer need to undergo additional EES biometric procedures, ensuring a smoother and more efficient arrival experience in Greece."
Inconsistent Implementation Across EU
Samantha McKnight, senior vice president of client solutions at CIBT Visas, noted in a blog post that EES has not been a uniform experience for travellers. "EES is working, just not yet consistently," she wrote. "The technology delivers on its promise of speed. The experience around it still needs refinement. Until implementation becomes more uniform, travellers and organisations alike should plan for variability and build flexibility into their journeys." She emphasised that staying informed and prepared is the best way to navigate Europe's evolving border landscape.
