No biometric checks required for British tourists in 2026

In a move with a clear impact on the management of arrivals and the tourism economy, the Greek government has proceeded to exempt British travellers from the biometric registration process upon entering the country, as part of the implementation of the European Entry/Exit System (EES). The measure, which has been in effect since April 10, 2026, mainly at international airports, allows holders of British passports to enter without having their fingerprints taken or a digital photograph recorded—a procedure normally required for third-country nationals.

This development does not stem solely from journalistic sources, but has also been confirmed through official channels. The Greek authorities in London have informed travellers accordingly, while a corresponding reference is also included in the travel guidance of the UK government, demonstrating that the measure is being applied in practice and is recognised at an intergovernmental level.

The decision came in response to serious operational problems highlighted during the initial phases of the system’s implementation, including long delays in passport control and queues that, in some cases, exceeded two hours. Government sources refer to a necessary “operational flexibility” in order to ease congestion at airports ahead of the peak tourist season and to protect the country’s image as a destination.

However, the measure is accompanied by a significant institutional gap. So far, no formal regulatory act has been published—such as in the Government Gazette —nor is there any known European-level exemption from the EES regulation, which provides for mandatory biometric data collection for third-country nationals. This means that the Greek approach appears to function as an administrative or operational arrangement, with political backing but without full formal legal codification.

The fact that the exemption specifically concerns British nationals highlights the importance of this market for Greek tourism, as the United Kingdom remains one of the main sources of inbound visitors. At the same time, it underscores the delicate balance Greece must manage between implementing new European security rules and maintaining the smooth operation of entry points during the peak tourist season.

So far, no clear timeframe has been announced for the duration of the measure, which is being treated as a transitional solution until the system’s operation improves and delays are reduced.

GIORGOS KATSAITIS