British holidaymakers travelling to Greece this summer will not face lengthy airport queues despite the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), according to the country’s tourism minister. Olga Kefalogianni confirmed that UK travellers would not be subjected to biometric checks during the summer season, as Greece moves to keep border procedures quick and efficient at its busiest airports.
Greece Aims to Keep Border Checks Under Two Minutes
Speaking to the BBC, Kefalogianni said Greece was determined not to “burden” visitors with excessive bureaucracy when entering or leaving the country.
The EU officially introduced its digital Entry/Exit System earlier this year, requiring non-EU visitors entering the Schengen Area to register biometric information, including fingerprints and facial scans. The system is designed to strengthen border security and replace manual passport stamping.
However, the rollout has already caused significant disruption across Europe. Some passengers in Italy reportedly faced queues lasting several hours, with more than 100 travellers missing an easyJet flight from Milan Linate to Manchester last month due to passport control congestion.
But Greece insists it has found a smoother approach. Kefalogianni stated that the country had “successfully started the full operation” of the EES while ensuring checks take “less than a couple of minutes” for travellers.
Greece Temporarily Suspended Biometric Checks
Despite the minister’s reassurances, Greece previously paused biometric checks for British passengers at Corfu Airport (CFU) earlier this spring after long queues formed shortly after the system’s launch. The move prompted questions from the European Commission, which reiterated that while temporary suspensions are permitted during periods of heavy congestion, blanket exemptions for travellers from specific countries are not allowed.
Kefalogianni denied Greece was bypassing EU rules, explaining that the country was simply streamlining procedures to reduce disruption during peak travel periods. The comments will likely come as welcome news for British tourists, with Greece expected to remain one of Europe’s most popular summer destinations in 2026.
The tourism minister also acknowledged that ongoing concerns surrounding jet fuel supply disruptions have made some travellers more hesitant to book holidays. Europe has faced increased pressure on fuel supplies following ongoing tensions in the Middle East, with reduced imports from the Gulf region raising concerns over potential price rises and operational disruption. The UK government recently stated there is currently “no need” for Britons to alter their travel plans, adding that contingency measures remain in place and no fuel shortages are expected in the UK.
Kefalogianni said Greece continues to see strong visitor numbers despite wider industry concerns, adding that the country remains attractive due to its balance of affordability, hospitality, and tourism offerings. The introduction of the EU’s Entry/Exit System continues to create operational challenges at some European airports. However, Greece says it has implemented measures intended to reduce delays for British tourists travelling during the summer season.
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