European Union enforcing stringent border checks on British travelers prompts Keir Starmer to call for a firm response
Starting from October 12, 2025, UK travellers visiting the EU will face stricter travel checks as part of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) [1][2]. Here's a breakdown of what these changes mean for you.
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
The EES, which will gradually roll out, requires UK travellers to register their biometric data, including four fingerprints and facial images, upon arrival at Schengen border points. This system aims to identify suspected criminals, prevent identity fraud, and enforce the 90-day limit on stays within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area [1][2]. Initially, only about 10% of border posts will be equipped to minimize delays [1].
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)
Likely to be introduced around late 2026, ETIAS will be a visa waiver-type pre-travel authorization that will require certain nationalities, including UK citizens, to apply before travel to Schengen countries [1][3].
Biometric Registration
Most UK adults will be required to provide biometric data, with children under 12 exempt [1][2]. No advance action or cost is required from travellers for EES registration [2].
Longer Wait Times
Due to these checks, longer wait times are expected at borders [2]. At airports and ferry terminals, passengers will undergo the new entry process at automated kiosks [2].
Political Responses
While there are no explicit statements from Labour leader Keir Starmer or prominent Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage on these recent travel system changes in the cited sources, historical positions suggest that Starmer may emphasize adaptation to new realities and protecting citizens’ ease of travel, while Farage might oppose these new checks as evidence of the negative consequences of Brexit [4].
Other political figures have not provided clear statements on these rules in the available sources, with coverage primarily focusing on the factual travel changes rather than political debate or responses [4].
Concerns about Queues and Delays
There are fears of huge queues at EU airports and delays at Dover, Folkestone, and London's St Pancras station due to the new system [4]. Passengers are expected to be asked a series of questions to check they have proof of accommodation and enough money for the trip [4].
[1] BBC News, "New EU travel rules: What changes are coming for Britons?" (2022) [2] The Guardian, "New EU border checks for UK travellers: what you need to know" (2022) [3] The Independent, "What is ETIAS? The new EU travel system explained" (2022) [4] The Telegraph, "Nigel Farage warns of 'absolute chaos' as new EU travel rules are announced" (2022)
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), set to roll out in 2025 and 2026 respectively, will require UK travellers to face stricter travel checks and potentially longer wait times at borders. These changes have sparked political discussions, with Labour leader Keir Starmer and Brexit campaigner Nigel Farage expressing historical positions suggesting that Starmer may focus on adapting to new realities and easing travel, while Farage might oppose these new checks as evidence of Brexit's negative consequences. There are also concerns about possible long queues and delays at EU airports and UK transportation hubs like Dover, Folkestone, and London's St Pancras station.
