An automated system for registering travellers from the UK and other non-EU countries each time they cross an EU external border has been planned for some time, with its introduction delayed on several occasions, most recently until after the Paris Olympics.
The European Commission has now confirmed that the Entry/Exit System (EES) will go live on 10 November 2024.
Local authorities in Kent and port officials in Dover have already expressed concerns that the new system could cause long delays and the Road Haulage Association (RHA) has warned hauliers and coach operators that they will be significantly impacted when EES is fully rolled-out.
It will, the Association claims, ensure stricter enforcement of the 90/180 rule. According to this EU requirement, holders of a Uniform Schengen Visa are allowed to stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days over a 180-day period.
Coach operators will be further affected with Eurotunnel Le Shuttle significantly reducing the number of coaches on its trains to account for additional processing times ahead of EES.
Responding to these concerns, the Government has announced that £10.5 million will be made available to prepare the Port of Dover, Eurostar and Eurotunnel for the forthcoming changes.
Minister for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra said: “This additional funding for ports will ensure they have the right technology and processes in place, so that EES registration can take place as smoothly as possible.”
At the Port of Dover, the funding will be used to expedite work on the Granville Dock Project, where the existing marina at the Western Docks will be filled in and used as a site for EES processing.
At Eurotunnel and Eurostar, their share of the money will be used to install kiosks, in addition to those already installed, undertake rigorous testing to reduce the risk of disruption, and support recruitment and training of staff to contribute to smoother EES implementation.
Nichola Mallon, Head of Trade at business group Logistics UK, said: “Logistics UK has welcomed the announcement of funding to help Channel ports prepare for the upcoming EU digital border system, but is pointing out that passengers using the border crossings still need education and information to try to minimise the impact of these new system requirements and the knock on impact on hauliers and freight.”
