The EU may not meet its deadline for new border checks, which are set to start at the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel, and Eurostar in November.
The European Commission has acknowledged that there might be a delay in launching the Entry Exit System (EES). This system will require travelers from the UK and other non-EU countries to register their information and biometric data, like fingerprints and facial scans, when entering the EU.
Originally, UK travelers were expected to have their faces scanned and fingerprints taken starting November 10.
However, this could now be delayed because the technology isn’t ready yet. A spokesperson from the European Commission stated that while the current deadline stands, there could still be delays since implementing such a system is complicated.
The new technology aims to modernize how the EU manages its external borders. Passengers will be provided with handheld devices to register their details while in their cars.
However, the Port of Dover has not received any of these devices yet, and therefore, proper testing of the system hasn’t occurred.
To prepare for the new checks, the port is undergoing significant upgrades, including building facilities specifically for these checks.
It will have 24 kiosks for coach passengers and agents with tablets to help register passengers arriving by car. The UK Government is working closely with the European Commission, France, and local authorities to ensure everything is ready on time.
This situation highlights the challenges of integrating new technologies into border security and the importance of cooperation between countries.
As reported by BBC, these developments could affect many travelers heading to the EU .
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c39lr4lddd3o