Greece Exempts Britons from EES Biometric Registration
Greece has announced that British passport holders will not undergo biometric checks on arrival under the EU Entry/Exit System. The exemption took effect on 10 April 2026, according to a government notice. The move applies to biometric registration at Greek border crossing points.
The announcement appeared late on Friday, 17 April, on the Greek Embassy website and on official social media. The government did not specify how long the exemption will remain in force. Filmogaz.com will continue to follow any further updates.
Official responses
The notice was shared by Britain’s ambassador to Greece. Eleni Skarveli, UK director of the Greek National Tourism Organisation, posted a public comment. She described the change as welcome news amid ongoing travel concerns.
Skarveli said the exemption, effective from 10 April 2026, should cut waiting times at airports. She added it will help ease congestion at border points. She also said UK travellers will not need to undergo additional EES biometric registration procedures on arrival.
Practical impact for travellers
Officials expect faster processing for Britons at Greek entry points. Shorter queues should improve the arrival experience at major airports. Tourism bodies said the change supports a smoother journey for visitors from the UK.
Questions that remain
The Greek statement left several details unresolved. No end date or scope for the exemption was provided. As of 9.30am on Saturday, FCDO travel advice for Greece had not been updated.
- Effective date: 10 April 2026.
- Announcement posted: 17 April on embassy website and social media.
- Key change: exemption from EES biometric registration for Britons.
- Outstanding: duration and full scope of the exemption.
Travel advisers and passengers should watch for further guidance from Greek authorities and the FCDO. Filmogaz.com will report new information as it becomes available.
