Greece to ‘fast-track’ British tourists amid EU entry-exit system chaos

WorldTravel
11 May 2026 • 4:12 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Greece to ‘fast-track’ British tourists amid EU entry-exit system chaos

  • Greece has unilaterally decided to scrap biometric border checks for British visitors, establishing a 'UK fast track' system.
  • This measure will remain in place until the EU's entry-exit system (EES) is improved, aiming to ensure a 'fuss-free experience' for British travellers.
  • The European Commission mandates biometric registration for non-EU nationals, including Britons, upon entering the Schengen area, which has caused significant delays at other European airports.
  • Greece's tourism minister, Olga Kefalogianni, stated the country wants to avoid bureaucratic burdens for visitors, noting that entry and exit currently take 'a minute or so'.
  • Despite expectations of a swift reaction, the European Commission has not yet taken action against Athens for its decision, and Greece does not intend to reintroduce biometrics until a better system is developed.

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