The latest update from the Foreign Office regarding travel to Greece brings positive news for British travelers. Following the full implementation of the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) earlier this month, significant disruptions have been reported by holidaymakers at airports across Europe. Lengthy queues and delays of up to four hours have caused many to miss their flights while navigating the new digital border system.
To alleviate the travel chaos, Greece has decided to exempt British passport holders from the EU requirement to provide fingerprints and facial scans at airport border controls. The Greek Embassy announced that as of April 10, 2026, British passport holders are not required to undergo biometric registration at Greek border crossing points under the EES. Subsequently, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel guidance for Greece.
In a statement on April 20, the FCDO confirmed that Greek authorities will not collect biometric data from UK travelers as part of the EES. This decision was made in response to concerns about the disruptions caused by the new biometric security measures at airports. The relaxation of EU rules by Greece is expected to enhance the travel experience for Brits entering the country, minimizing wait times and unnecessary delays.
Luke Petherbridge, director of public affairs at ABTA, expressed disappointment over the delays experienced by some passengers due to the EES implementation. He emphasized the importance of proactive measures to prevent delays and ensure smooth travel experiences for passengers.
The EES, which became fully operational on April 10, 2026, mandates that all British travelers entering the Schengen area create a digital record and register biometric details like fingerprints and a photograph. This registration is required upon the initial arrival at the airport border in the Schengen area and remains valid for three years. Countries in the Schengen area include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Currently, Greece is the only country within the Schengen area that has waived the EES requirements for British travelers. Travel to the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus does not necessitate compliance with the EES as they are not part of the Schengen area.
For more details on the new EES system, you can visit the government website.
