A new travel warning has been issued to Britons wishing to visit certain European Union countries this autumn.
The new regulations mandate biometric data collection, including fingerprint scanning and facial photography, for all visitors entering the Schengen zone.
These measures form part of enhanced security protocols that will apply to short-term stays in 29 countries.
The Entry/Exit System commences on October 12, transforming border procedures across major UK departure points.
Travellers using Dover port, the Folkestone Eurotunnel terminal and St Pancras International station must complete biometric checks before departing Britain.
The majority of checks apply to arrivals at continental airports and seaports.
British tourists must prepare for extended processing periods at checkpoints as the digital registration becomes mandatory.
The new system aims to enhance frontier controls and tackle unauthorised stays across member states.
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|British holidaymakers heading to European Union nations will encounter fresh requirements at borders starting this autumn
The changes affect all short-term visits to popular destinations including France, Spain, Italy and Germany.
Digital records remain valid for three years, meaning returning visitors within this period only need to verify their identity through fingerprints or photographs at borders.
Registration involves answering standard border control questions alongside the biometric data collection.
Ministers have allocated £10.5million to major departure hubs to facilitate the transition.
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|These measures form part of enhanced security protocols that will apply to short-term stays in 29 countries
Dover, Eurotunnel and Eurostar will each receive £3.5million for installing registration equipment and upgrading facilities.
Eurostar plans to deploy 50 automated kiosks across three station areas, promising swift processing for passengers.
Eurotunnel's investment covers more than 100 registration points, with officials estimating approximately five minutes of additional journey time.
Dover's arrangements include 24 dedicated kiosks for coach travellers.
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|The infrastructure upgrades aim to minimise disruption as millions of British travellers adapt to the new requirements
Car passengers will encounter mobile agents equipped with tablets to complete checks efficiently whilst remaining in their vehicles.
The infrastructure upgrades aim to minimise disruption as millions of British travellers adapt to the new requirements.
In addition, Brussels plans to introduce another layer of border management in late 2026.
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System will require British passport holders to obtain advance permission before entering Schengen countries.
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|Travellers using Dover port, the Folkestone Eurotunnel terminal and St Pancras International station must complete biometric checks before departing Britain
Applications will involve submitting personal details and travel plans online, accompanied by a €7 processing charge.
The authorisation mirrors similar schemes operated by other nations for security screening purposes.
Officials stress no immediate action is needed regarding this future requirement.
The European Commission will announce precise implementation dates closer to the launch, allowing travellers adequate preparation time for the additional pre-departure step.