UK tourists warned over new EU 'border' rule most are 'unaware' of

British tourists have been hit by a new holiday travel warning over a new European Union rule most are 'unaware' of. New Co-op research shows almost two thirds of UK adults unaware of new EU Entry/Exit System (EES) scheduled to launch later this year.

Over two-fifths of UK adults admit they would be ‘put off’ travelling to Europe as a result of the new system, which requires fingerprints and facial scans to be taken from UK travellers on first use. Graham Ward-Lush, Head of Travel at Co-op Insurance, commented: “As these new changes to airport security launch, it’s important for travellers to be aware of what to expect so they can plan accordingly.

“Going on holiday is a great way for people to take a break and unwind, however, as our research shows, there can be an added stress that comes with travelling to your destination, as travellers navigating the fast pace that comes with being in an airport and following the various processes in place.

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“From our data, we can see that 2024 is already shaping up to be a big year for travel and so we want to make sure holidaymakers are well prepared so that they can ensure their trips are stress free.” Co-op Insurance is encouraging travellers to familiarise themselves with the new rules ahead of planned October launch.

The changes will see the introduction of a ‘digital border’ between EU/Schengen Area countries and those outside from October. Just under half (46%) said they didn’t like the idea of their details being captured and remaining in the system for up to three years, Co-op found.

And almost two fifths (38%) said the potential for ‘long delays at border control’ would make them think twice. When asked specifically about the impact of going through airport security, alongside feelings of being ‘stressed’ (23%), 19% said they felt ‘anxious’, with 18% feeling ‘nervous’.