Greece denies formal EES exemption for British travelers but allows flexibility

Airports can temporarily suspend biometric scanners during high traffic periods, but no nationality-specific exemption applies

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Greece has rejected reports that British travelers are formally exempt from new biometric border checks this summer, though airports will be allowed to suspend the system during busy periods.

According to AP News, the Greek Foreign Ministry said on Thursday, "We have not received any further update or clarification as to whether, for example, specific nationalities are temporarily exempt from the relevant procedure."

The statement came in response to earlier reports that Greek officials visiting the UK had suggested biometric requirements would be waived this summer for travelers from Britain.

EU rules allow temporary suspensions

The EU Entry-Exit System (EES) began operating at Greek airports and other entry points on April 10 as part of a Europe-wide rollout, replacing passport stamps with biometric data collected through photographs and digital fingerprints.

European and Greek authorities have clarified that suspension of the system is permitted only during periods of high passenger traffic at specific entry points and does not apply to any country or nationality.

In practice, however, many travelers are still likely to pass through airports without the new biometric checks, as EU rules allow temporary suspensions during the early stages of implementation.

Last week, Greek police described the digital entry system as being in "full operation," but said they would take "all necessary measures to ensure the smooth flow of visitors … making full use of provisions in (European) Union legislation."

Conflicting guidance from UK government

Current travel guidance from the UK Foreign Office states: "Greek authorities have indicated that they will not collect biometric data (fingerprints and photos) for UK travelers as part of EES. Follow the advice of authorities on the ground."

Tourism industry concerns

Private tour operators fear additional airport checks could discourage travel from the UK, especially late bookings, to the EU and widen the disparity with European Union citizens, who can move within the bloc without passport checks.

Britain is a critical market for Greek tourism. Nearly 38 million people visited Greece last year, spending 23 billion euros ($25 billion) and boosting the country's 204 billion-euro economy.

The largest number of visitors came from Germany at nearly 6 million, followed by Britain at 4.9 million.