Readers describe 'two-hour queues, utter chaos' at EU borders as new system draws criticism — skynews
British travellers say a recently introduced EU entry-exit system is causing lengthy delays, confusion and stress at several European airports. Personal accounts collected from readers describe long waits, unfamiliar biometric checks and inconsistent processing, prompting calls for clearer guidance and faster implementation of fixes.
Queues and confusion as biometric checks replace passport stamps
The new entry-exit system, known as EES, replaces passport stamping for most non-EU citizens. Under the change, travellers must scan passports and submit fingerprints and a photograph on arrival to many European countries. While the system is intended to streamline border control and improve security, numerous readers say the practical rollout has fallen short.
One traveller described waiting more than two hours to pass through control, with long lines forming by the arrivals halls. Another said the process felt chaotic, with limited signage, queued passengers unsure where to form lines and staff appearing to rely on makeshift explanations. Several people reported that kiosk availability was inconsistent between terminals, and that some officers were still stamping passports despite the new digital checks, adding to uncertainty.
Families and older travellers flagged particular difficulties. Those less familiar with digital ID processes struggled with fingerprint capture and passport scanning, and some passengers said instructions were not always offered in clear, plain language. Delays compounded stress for people trying to catch onward transport or meet connecting flights.
What authorities and travellers say needs to change
Travel professionals and readers urged a series of practical steps to reduce disruption. Recommendations included increasing the number of biometric kiosks, improving staffing levels during peak arrival windows and deploying clearer, multilingual signage that explains each stage of the process. Some suggested dedicated lanes for families and passengers needing assistance.
Several readers also urged better coordination between airlines and border authorities so passengers receive pre-arrival guidance about the new checks. This could include clearer emails at check-in and announcements onboard planes, helping travellers understand what documents and steps will be required on arrival.
Border officials have previously said the system is designed to speed up long-term processing and reduce the need for manual passport checks. But the accounts shared by travellers suggest short-term growing pains as countries and airports adapt to the new technology and operational demands.
Wider financial and practical implications highlighted in reader discussion
Alongside border frustrations, readers discussing the entry system also raised broader financial worries touched on in recent coverage. Young workers remain concerned about a potential delay to plans that would raise the minimum wage for 18 to 20-year-olds to the same level as older workers; some fear that higher youth wage costs could deter hiring and worsen youth unemployment. New labour market figures released Tuesday (ET) show unemployment among 16 to 24-year-olds at its highest level in years, a statistic readers linked to wider economic anxieties.
Separately, older couples are being reminded that eligibility rules for means-tested pension support can leave some households worse off if one partner is below state pension age. A charity highlighted that affected couples can lose several thousand pounds a year, an issue readers said compounds the cost-of-living squeeze and can influence travel plans and retirement security.
Readers urged governments and travel operators to prioritise quick, practical improvements to border processing while pursuing longer-term policy fixes for employment and benefits. For many, the immediate goal is simple: restore predictability and dignity to travel so trips are defined by destinations rather than queues.
