As temperatures rise across the UK, many Brits are dreaming of summer holidays overseas, soaking up sun and culture. However, travellers heading to Portugal or Sweden this year should take note of a new requirement to avoid lengthy queues upon arrival.
New Digital Border System Causes Delays
The Entry/Exit System (EES), an automated digital border control system operated by the European Union, is causing unexpected backlogs at airports. It logs entry, exit, and refusal of entry for non-EU nationals, including British citizens, replacing traditional passport stamping.
To streamline the process, the EU has released a free app called Travel to Europe, available from app stores. It allows travellers to pre-register their passport, complete a facial scan, and answer entry questions up to 72 hours before arriving. The app generates a QR code confirming that you have responded to questions about your visit, such as how much money you will have access to, how much cash you are carrying, and whether you have pre-booked accommodation.
How the App Works
TikTok user @wadebeyondtravel explained: "Are you sick of the queues when you get to Europe for the EES? The EU has quietly released a travel app that allows you to register your biometrics before you travel, so you go through passport control really easily."
Currently, the app is only operational in Portugal and Sweden, meaning travellers to other nations may still face lengthy queues. However, additional countries will be rolled out soon, so enabling notifications on the app is recommended.
The app streamlines border control by allowing you to voluntarily pre-register your passport, provide a facial scan, and answer entry questions. Questions cover the purpose of your visit, intended departure date, and whether you have a return ticket booked. You can also add fellow travellers to your app, so not everyone in your group needs to download it themselves.
Once submitted, the app produces a QR code that can be scanned at self-service border kiosks. This does not replace traditional face-to-face border checks but can dramatically cut waiting times in packed queues.
Data Privacy
Regarding personal data, the Travel to Europe website states: "Before you submit your journey, only you have access to your personal data. The border authorities of the country you have selected for your journey will only see it once you submit your journey. Any unsubmitted draft versions will be automatically deleted after 7 days. The EES guarantees that your personal data is protected under EU data protection law."
So, before heading to the airport, ensure you have downloaded the Travel to Europe app and pre-registered your details to avoid unnecessary delays and enjoy a smoother entry into Portugal or Sweden.
