The country scrapping new EU biometric checks for British holidaymakers

WorldTravel
19 Apr 2026 • 5:18 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

The country scrapping new EU biometric checks for British holidaymakers

  • Greece has unilaterally exempted British passport holders from the new EU entry-exit system (EES) biometric registration at its border crossing points.
  • The decision, announced by the Greek National Tourism Organisation, aims to ensure a smoother and more efficient arrival experience for British tourists.
  • This move is expected to significantly reduce waiting times and ease congestion at Greek airports, particularly on popular islands, compared to the EES.
  • Instead of the biometric EES, the entry process for British travellers will revert to the previous method of a quick passport check and stamp.
  • Greece's decision is driven by the economic importance of British tourism and may prompt other Mediterranean rivals to follow suit.

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