10 November confirmed as EU's Entry/Exit System launch date as government commits £10.5 million support to improve infrastructure

The EU is introducing the checks to make it harder for criminals or terrorists to enter the bloc using fake passports. 

As a result of the UK’s juxtaposed borders arrangement, the introduction will lead to new checks in the UK for those travelling to the EU through the Port of Dover, on LeShuttle in Folkestone and on the Eurostar through London’s St Pancras. 

Reacting to the news that the government was committing £10.5 million to help ease the EES process, Nichola Mallon Logistics UK's Head of Trade and Devolved Policy said: “Logistics UK has been calling on government to provide support to help streamline these new border processes. This announcement of funding to help Channel ports prepare for the upcoming EU digital border is welcome but logistics businesses remain seriously concerned about the knock-on delay to freight, particularly at peak tourist periods, when high volumes of passengers have to be processed via EES.  

"As this is a passenger focused process, it is critical that government leads on the campaign to inform and educate the public about what to expect and what is involved. 

"Our members, companies which move the goods which GB needs every day, are still waiting for clarification on a several areas concerning the new border processing model which, if not ironed out, could leave goods stranded at the border.

"Any delay at UK borders slows the passage of goods and we need governments on both sides of the Channel to work together to minimise this friction. This includes accelerated implementation of an app-based system to allow for EES remote registration to reduce border congestion."   

It has also been confirmed that, from May 2025, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be introduced, which could see non-EU nationals having to pay an entry fee. 

Travellers under 18 or over 70 will be exempt from the charge, while those travelling to Ireland or Cyprus will not need an ETIAS as these nations are outside the Schengen area. 

The visa waiver will require UK citizens to apply for an online permit and submit personal information such as address, employment details and any criminal convictions, as well as contact information when in the country of destination. 

Whilst most applicants could be approved in minutes, for some, the decision may take between 48 and 72 hours. The EU has said it will run a six-month “transitional period” after the ETIAS is introduced, meaning travellers will be expected to apply for the waiver, but will not be automatically refused entry at the border if they do not have it but fulfil other entry conditions 

Logistics UK will continue to update members on this subject. 

Published On: 29/08/2024 14:00:00

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