New entry rules, passport checks and biometric borders are complicating the UK holidaymaker’s getaway.
UK holidaymakers planning overseas trips this summer should check the latest entry requirements before departure.
The warning follows the full launch of the European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) on 10 April 2026.
New research from Airport Parking and Hotels (APH) highlights the different entry requirements facing British travellers. The guide covers popular destinations across Europe, the USA, Turkey, Jamaica and the Maldives.
With millions preparing for summer breaks, APH hopes to help travellers avoid costly mistakes. Common issues include passport validity, Schengen stay limits and Europe’s new border systems.
Europe’s New Entry/Exit System Explained
The new EES requires non-EU nationals to complete biometric border checks when entering participating countries.
Travellers must provide fingerprint scans and facial photographs during their first registration. Authorities then store the digital record for up to three years.
The system now operates across 29 European countries. Most Schengen Area destinations participate. However, Ireland and Cyprus remain outside the scheme.
Meanwhile, Greece has temporarily relaxed some biometric procedures this summer. The move aims to reduce queues and minimise delays during the peak holiday season.
ETIAS Travel Authorisation Arrives Later This Year
The EU also plans to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) later in 2026.
Under the new scheme, visa-exempt travellers must apply online before travelling to most European countries.
The application will cost €20 per person. However, travellers under 18 and over 70 will not pay the fee.
Once approved, ETIAS authorisation should remain valid for up to three years. It will also expire when the linked passport expires.
Passport Validity Rules Continue to Catch Travellers Out
Passport validity remains one of the most common causes of travel disruption.
Many European countries now apply the “10-Year Passport Rule”. Therefore, UK passports must have been issued within the previous 10 years on the date of entry.
In addition, passports must usually have at least three months remaining before expiry.
Travellers who fail to meet these requirements risk being denied boarding. They may also face refusal at border controls.
Other destinations operate different rules. For example, Turkey requires passports to remain valid for at least 150 days from arrival.
Understanding Schengen Stay Limits
Many travellers still find Schengen stay calculations confusing.
Countries including Spain, France, Italy, Portugal and Greece allow visitors to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
However, Cyprus follows different rules. Although it is an EU member, it does not belong to the Schengen Area.
As a result, time spent in Cyprus does not count towards the wider Schengen allowance.
Plan Ahead for a Hassle-Free Holiday
Travel requirements have become increasingly complex for UK holidaymakers.
Consequently, travellers should check passport validity, entry requirements and stay limits well before departure.
Small mistakes can lead to significant disruption. Therefore, researching destination rules in advance can help ensure a smoother start to any holiday.
The APH guide aims to help travellers understand the latest regulations and avoid unexpected problems at the border.