The UK Foreign Office has issued a warning to travellers as border queues in certain European countries are expected to get longer from November. Changes coming into effect in November could result in delays for those travelling to as many as 29 countries. Starting from November, travellers entering these countries will be required to have their fingerprints and a photo taken upon entry. The same procedure will apply when leaving these countries, with the added information that passport stamps will no longer be given.
The rule changes will impact countries within the Schengen area, which includes 29 European nations that have eliminated border controls at their mutual borders. The Government has advised that the new measures could lead to increased wait times at border crossings for British travellers. Travellers departing from Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone, or St Pancras International will have their fingerprints and photo taken before leaving the UK.
The affected countries include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, 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. Travellers may also be required to obtain a visa for visits exceeding 90 days, for reasons such as tourism, education, medical treatment, business, or media activities.
To find out specific entry requirements for the country you plan to visit, visit gov.uk/travel-to-eu-schengen-area. The changes have been put in place to enhance border security and streamline immigration processes, but could lead to longer queues for travellers. It is advisable to stay informed about these new regulations before planning any trips to the affected countries.