On Monday, April 27, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) issued updated travel advice for Portugal, including Madeira, Porto Santo, and the Azores. The key change involves the implementation of the European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) across the Schengen area.
What is the EES?
The EES replaces the manual passport stamping system. Travelers entering the Schengen area for short stays may need to register biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photo, at no cost.
How does it affect travelers?
On your first visit to a Schengen country, you may be directed to a special booth to register before proceeding to immigration. Your fingerprint or photo may also be required when leaving. Children aged 11 or under are exempt from fingerprinting but may need a photo.
Travelers do not need to take action before arriving at the border, but should expect longer wait times due to the new procedures. Those entering via the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone, or Eurostar at St Pancras International will have their details taken before leaving the UK.
Optional EU Travel App
The FCDO advises that prior to traveling, you can use the EU's Travel to Europe mobile application to complete an entry questionnaire. This is optional but can help speed up border checks.
