Greece says new biometric checks are active for non-EU travelers, but some could pass without scans
ATHENS, Greece — Greece has announced that a new biometric screening system for non-European Union citizens at airports is now fully operational. Reports of a formal summer exemption for British travelers have been denied, although busy airports will have the option to turn off the scanners when necessary during the summer months.
“We have not received any further update or clarification as to whether, for example, specific nationalities are temporarily exempt from the relevant procedure,” the Foreign Ministry stated in response to a query from The Associated Press.
The EU Entry-Exit System, or EES, was implemented at Greek airports and other entry points on April 10 as part of a wider rollout across Europe. This system replaces traditional passport stamps with biometric data collected through photographs and digital fingerprints.
Earlier indications from Greek officials visiting the U.K. suggested that the requirement would be waived for British travelers this summer, as the U.K. is an important market for Greece’s tourism sector.
The current travel guidance from the U.K. Foreign Office states that Greek authorities have indicated they will not collect biometric data for UK travelers as part of EES, and travelers should follow the advice of local authorities.
However, European and Greek authorities clarified that the suspension of the system is only permitted during high passenger traffic periods at specific entry points and does not apply to any specific country or nationality.
In practical terms, many travelers are still likely to pass through airports without undergoing the new biometric checks, as temporary suspensions are allowed under EU rules during the initial phase of implementation.
Last week, Greek police confirmed that the digital entry system is fully operational and that they will take all necessary measures to ensure smooth visitor flow, utilizing provisions in EU legislation.
Private tour operators are concerned that additional airport checks could deter travel from the U.K., particularly last-minute bookings, to the EU. This may also exacerbate the gap between British travelers and EU citizens, who can move freely within the bloc without passport checks.
Greece welcomed nearly 38 million visitors last year, contributing 23 billion euros ($25 billion) to the country’s economy, which is valued at 204 billion euros.
Germany had the highest number of visitors, with almost 6 million, followed by Britain with 4.9 million visitors.
Kantouris reported from Thessaloniki, Greece
