Families are being reminded of extra border checks taking place this Easter when the EU’s new Entry/Exist system will be fully operational.
The EU has been gradually introducing EES since October last year, and it is due to be fully implemented in 29 countries from Friday 10 April.
These border checks create a digital record of when non‑EU residents travel to the Schengen area for a short stay (up to 90 days in a rolling 180‑day period) and when they leave.
It means that each time a non‑EU resident enters or exits the Schengen area, their biometrics and passport details will be digitally recorded.
Already, this has caused delays at airports across the EU, including in mainland Spain and the Canaries, where some passengers have missed flights as a result.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Government said: “EES checks should take only a few minutes per person, although longer waits at border control are possible, including for your journeys back to the UK.
“As with all journeys, travellers should follow their travel operator’s guidance and allow time to complete these checks, particularly if they have connections or onward transport booked.”
Minister for Border Security and Asylum Alex Norris said: “The EU’s Entry/Exit System will be a significant change for Brits travelling this Easter.
“Always check with your transport operator in case extra time may be needed, both for your return to the UK and travelling to the EU.”
Earlier this week, Advantage Travel Partnership CEO Julia Lo Bue-Said called for countries to be given the option to temporarily suspend EES if queues build up.
“We continue to engage with the European Commission on taking steps to help minimise disruption for Brits as much as possible,” added Alex.
