Holidaymakers from Northern Ireland are being urged to prepare for new digital border controls when travelling to the Schengen area this summer. The Consumer Council says the Entry Exit System (EES) will replace manual passport stamping with biometric checks for non-EU passport holders.

The system requires UK passport holders and other non-EU travellers to provide fingerprints and have a photograph taken on first entry, creating a digital record valid for three years. Subsequent visits within that period will only need a fingerprint or photo at the border.

Michelle Kelly, Head of Transport Policy at the Consumer Council, said that journeys to Schengen countries may take longer than before while the new process beds in. Travellers do not need to supply information in advance but should allow extra time at airports, ports and border crossings, particularly during the peak summer period.

The Schengen area covered by the EES includes all EU countries except Cyprus and Ireland, plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

The advice comes amid recent public concern over jet fuel prices and potential shortages. The Consumer Council noted that the UK Government has stated there is no current need for consumers to change their travel plans, as airlines are not reporting a shortage of jet fuel. However, holidaymakers are encouraged to stay informed through their airline or travel provider about any cancellations or delays.

Passengers departing from UK or EU airports retain strong consumer rights, and the Consumer Council has published ten top tips for summer travel to help journeys run smoothly. More information is available on its website.