Blow for holidaymakers as EU holiday biometric checks postponed indefinitely - no new date set

The European Commission announced the postponement following a meeting of EU interior ministers in Luxembourg on Thursday.

Unlike previous delays, no new deadline has been set for the implementation of the regulations.

The indefinite postponement comes as several EU countries, including Germany, France and the Netherlands, expressed concerns about their readiness to roll out the new electronic system.

The delay reportedly stems from technical difficulties faced by all three countries, which collectively handle 40 per cent of all inward traffic into the EU.

Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson pointed out that there were “concerns when it comes to the resilience of the system”.

The EU officials aim to reassess the implementation strategy and address any technical and logistic hurdles.

The European Commission is exploring a phased introduction of the EES, with Johansson suggesting the possibility of a “little step by step going into the system”, as opposed to a “Big Bang of all border crossing points at the same time”.

A diplomate from one member state told The Telegraph: “The Commission has been given a mandate to work on a phased approach for the rollout, which might require some legal tweaks. So the Commission now has some homework to do.”

Director of Public Affairs at ABTA The Travel Association Luke Petherbridge said: “It is good to know the full implementation of EES is no longer expected in November, as the industry had been left in limbo waiting for news on when it will start."

What is the EES?

Dating back to 2016, the EES aims to modernise checks at the EU's external borders, replacing traditional passport stamping.

The system will apply to non-EU citizens visiting the bloc for short stays.

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Travellers will be required to provide biometric data, including facial photos and fingerprints, upon arrival.

All entries and exits from the Schengen Area will be electronically recorded, enhancing authorities' ability to monitor visa compliance and combat identity fraud.

The system's real-time information sharing is designed to enhance border security and crack down on visa overstays.

Once operational, this will significantly alter the entry process for short-term visitors to the EU.