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Thu, 21 May 2026

Thu, 21 May 2026 Prepare for half term queues at Dover due to EU border process, port says

It is the first holiday period since the EU's new border system was fully implemented.

* The Port of Dover is warning ferry passengers to expect delays due to the implementation of the EU's new Entry Exit System (EES) at French border controls.
* Some countries, including France, have not yet implemented biometric checks and are instead creating profiles for tourists, leading to longer processing times.
* 18,000 cars are expected to pass through Dover between Friday and Sunday, with Saturday being the busiest day.
* Passengers who miss their intended sailing due to delays can get on the next available departure.
* The Port of Dover has contingency plans in place, including using a car racing track as a holding area if queues get too long.
* Border authorities can suspend EES if severe delays build up.
* Eurotunnel's Folkestone terminal is also experiencing similar issues with biometric checks not yet implemented.
* Greece has said British passengers will not face biometric checks this summer.
* Easyjet and Jet2 have reassured customers that they can book their holidays with confidence, despite some issues with EES.
* Travel association ABTA reports strong demand for trips to Spain, Italy, and other popular destinations, driven by a desire for value and peace of mind.
* The RAC predicts the late May bank holiday weekend will be the busiest in two years, with almost 19 million getaway trips being made.