Navigating EES Border Checks: A Traveler’s Guide for Portugal and Italy in 2026

For those dreaming of sun-soaked vacations along the stunning coastlines of Portugal or the rich history found within the streets of Italy, the year 2026 introduces an essential update to your travel itinerary. As you prepare for your journey, be aware of the newly implemented European Union’s Entry/Exit System (EES) that could impact your border experience.

Since its full activation on April 10, 2026, the EES has replaced the age-old practice of passport stamping with an advanced digital biometric method. While it strives to enhance border security and curb illegal immigration, the initial launch has led to considerable delays within major European travel hubs. Understanding these changes is crucial for travelers hoping to avoid missed flights and unnecessary stress during their adventures.

Understanding the EES Changes

For non-EU travelers, including those from the UK, crossing into the Schengen area now demands more than just a quick passport stamp. Under the EES, first-time arrivals from outside the EU must establish a digital profile.

This verification process entails:

• Submitting personal information from your travel documents.
• Undergoing a facial image capture.
• Scanning fingerprints at either automated kiosks or attended booths.

While this shift aims to streamline future border entries and strictly monitor the 90/180-day travel rule, the registration process has created substantial delays at border crossings. Travelers now spend considerably more time at kiosks, prolonging wait times and intensifying frustrations.

How Portugal and Italy Are Affected

As key entry points for international visitors, airports in Portugal and Italy have experienced some of the most noticeable disruptions related to the new EES system.

In Portugal, major airports such as those in Lisbon, Porto, and Faro have seen border control wait times balloon to two to three hours during peak travel periods. The combination of heavy foot traffic and a lengthy biometrics verification process has overwhelmed airport terminals, with officials temporarily halting biometric collections at select departure gates to mitigate backlogs. However, checks upon arrival remain compulsory.

On the other hand, Italy‘s Milan Malpensa and Rome Fiumicino airports are grappling with similar delays. The situation becomes more complicated for travelers who may also be residents of Italy, as misunderstanding regarding visitor and residency status has led to misregistrations within the EES. This additional verification process consumes extra time per traveler, leading to missed flights and heightened anxiety.

The Reasons Behind the Delays

The influx of delays at border checkpoints can be attributed to several factors: staffing shortages, technological hiccups, and an overwhelming number of passengers.

1. Technological Issues: The self-service kiosks can be inconsistent in functionality. Minute delays—whether due to improper positioning for photos or fingerprint scanning errors—quickly accumulate across large groups of travelers.
2. Insufficient Staffing: Border control agencies are finding it difficult to deploy adequate personnel to assist travelers in maneuvering through the new kiosks.
3. Underutilization of Pre-Registration Systems: Though the EU has set up a “Travel to Europe” app for pre-registering biometrics, its adoption in various regional airports remains limited, leading to longer lines。

Travel Tips for a Smoother Experience in 2026

Don’t let the anxiety of prolonged waits deter you from embarking on your European journey. With careful planning, you can minimize delays and enhance your travel experience:

• Allow Extra Time: Previously, a two-hour pre-flight arrival was standard; now, it’s advisable for non-EU travelers to arrive at least three to four hours in advance of international flights.
• Prepare Your Documents: Keep your passport accessible, open it to the photo page, and ensure you’re ready for the facial image capture by removing glasses or head coverings before reaching the kiosk.
• Utilize Available Apps: If your point of entry supports it, consider using the Frontex pre-registration app to submit your biometric details up to 72 hours before your arrival.
• Monitor Real-Time Updates: Prior to heading to the airport, visit its official site or social media pages for current wait times.

Looking Forward: Industry Reactions

In response to the ongoing issues, prominent travel entities like the Airports Council International (ACI Europe) and Airlines for Europe (A4E) have voiced concerns to the European Commission. They are advocating for member states to consider emergency measures that might ease EES processes during peak summer travel months if the situation worsens.

While the EES represents a significant advancement in securing European borders, officials stress that enhancing the passenger experience is a primary goal. As staffing and technology adapt to this new system, member states are persistently refining their procedures to ensure smoother transit.

Conclusion

The implementation of the EES system signifies a meaningful shift in European border security, but the adaptation phase is presenting challenges for travelers. Those planning to visit Portugal and Italy this year should brace for extended processing times at airports. By preparing adequately, arriving ahead of schedule, and staying informed, you can navigate these new border protocols without letting them overshadow your European getaway.

Source: The post EES Border Checks in Portugal and Italy: How to Beat the 2026 Travel Delays first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.