Greece Travel Update: EU Rule Suspended for UK Travelers

The UK Foreign Office has updated its Greece travel advice for Brits, and it is good news.
The EU's Entry/Exit System caused travel disruptions with long queues and delays. Holidaymakers reported queues lasting up to four hours, and many missed flights.
Greece has waived the EU rule requiring Brits to give fingerprints and facial scans at airport borders. The Greek Embassy announced this update for British passport holders.
There have been long queues at European airports due to the new Entry/Exit System.
British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border points. The Foreign Office revised its travel guidance for Greece after this announcement.
The UK Foreign Office stated that Greek authorities will not collect biometric data from UK travelers. The office advised following local authorities' guidance and showing residence documents at passport control.
Greece stopped using the new biometric security measures due to travel chaos concerns. This change should make travel to Greece smoother for Brits.
The change should make travel to Greece smoother for UK travelers.
Luke Petherbridge of ABTA noted that while many have a smooth travel experience, some passengers face delays due to the Entry/Exit System.
ABTA warned destinations and the European Commission about potential delays and advised using contingency measures and adequate staffing.
The Entry/Exit System was fully implemented on April 10, 2026, and requires Brits to create a digital record and register biometric details. This is needed for the first arrival at a Schengen area airport border.
The Schengen area includes countries like Austria, Belgium, and France. It also includes Germany, Greece, and many others.
Greece is the only country to relax EU requirements for UK travelers. The Entry/Exit System is not required for travel to Ireland and Cyprus.
For more information on the new Entry/Exit System, visit the government website.
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