New EES border checks raise risk of delays, extra costs for non-EU travellers

Non-EU travellers heading to Europe this summer are being urged to prepare for longer border processing times under the European Union's new Entry/Exit System (EES), with experts warning that failing to plan ahead could result in missed flights and unexpected expenses.

The EES requires non-EU travellers, including UK citizens, to register their fingerprints and have their photograph taken when entering the bloc for the first time under the new system. The additional checks, combined with technical issues at some locations, have led to lengthy queues at several airports, with some passengers reportedly missing flights, BBC writes.

Travel experts recommend arriving well in advance of departure, while also following the guidance of individual transport operators.

Wizz Air's UK management has advised passengers departing from European airports to arrive around three hours before their return flights to the UK. Other carriers, including Ryanair and Jet2, have issued similar recommendations at some airports.

However, guidance varies depending on the mode of travel. Eurostar advises passengers to arrive at the time specified on their ticket, saying its recommended arrival times already account for the new border procedures. Meanwhile, the Port of Dover has urged ferry passengers not to arrive more than two hours before departure after technical issues temporarily prevented the EES from being used there, warning that arriving too early could create unnecessary congestion.

Travellers are also encouraged to sign up for notifications from airlines and transport operators, which may provide updates on waiting times, delays or operational changes.

The UK's Civil Aviation Authority advises passengers to check directly with their airline before travelling to the airport to ensure they allow sufficient time for security screening and border formalities. Most airlines offer mobile apps, text alerts and email notifications that can help travellers stay informed.

Experts also recommend reviewing travel insurance policies before departure, as passengers who miss flights because of long EES queues may have limited options for recovering their costs.

The Association of British Insurers says travel insurance is unlikely to cover replacement flights, accommodation or other expenses arising from delays caused by the new border checks because they are considered a routine travel procedure.

Travel insurance specialists note that while some policies include missed departure or travel delay coverage, immigration and border queues are often excluded from the list of covered events.

The warning follows reports of passengers facing lengthy waits at European airports after the introduction of the new system, highlighting the importance of allowing extra travel time and checking the latest guidance before setting off.

By Sabina Mammadli