Travelore Tips: Pre-Register For Europe's Entry/Exit System: Skip The Hours-Long Lines!

If you are Traveling to Europe this summer, be prepared for potential delays upon arrival. A new system called the Entry/Exit System (EES) is being implemented across many European airports, and it's unfortunately causing significantly longer wait times for non-EU travelers, including American tourists.

What's causing the delays?

The EES requires biometric registration – fingerprints and photos – for all non-EU visitors entering and exiting member states. This process takes considerably longer than the previous manual passport checks, leading to congestion and frustration, especially during peak travel periods.

Lisbon Airport's Solution: The "Travel to Europe" App

Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) in Portugal, having experienced substantial delays, has been selected to pilot a new solution: the "Travel to Europe" mobile app. This app, developed by Frontex (the European Border and Coast Guard Agency), allows travelers to pre-register their information, significantly speeding up the entry process.

How the App Works:

Download the App: Available on the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android).

Pre-Register Up to 72 Hours Before Travel:

Answer a travel questionnaire.

Enter your personal data and passport details.

Upload a recent photo and trip information.

Receive a QR Code: After successful pre-registration, the app generates a unique QR code.

Scan at Self-Service Kiosks: Upon arrival at Lisbon Airport, look for the designated self-service kiosks. Scan your QR code to quickly complete the remaining border control steps.

Benefits of Pre-Registration:

Reduce Wait Times: While not explicitly guaranteed, using the app can significantly decrease the time spent in immigration queues compared to completing the entire process in person.

Smoother Arrival Experience: Pre-registering allows for a more efficient and less stressful start to your European vacation.

Avoid Missing Connecting Flights: Shorter lines mean less risk of missing subsequent travel connections.

Key Considerations:

Lisbon Airport Only (For Now): Currently, the "Travel to Europe" app's pre-registration functionality is only available for arrivals at Lisbon Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS). Plans are underway to expand its use to other airports in the future.

Optional but Recommended: While using the app is optional, it's highly recommended to minimize wait times, especially during busy summer months.

Physical Border Control Still Required: All American tourists, regardless of pre-registration, must still physically pass through border control.

Stay Informed: Keep an eye on updates from European border authorities and your airline for the latest information on EES implementation and potential pre-registration options at other airports.

Don't Let Long Lines Dampen Your Spirits.

While the new EES system presents a challenge, the "Travel to Europe" app offers a valuable tool for pre-registered American tourists traveling through Lisbon. By taking advantage of this pre-registration option, you can streamline your entry process, minimize wait times, and get your European adventure off to a smooth and enjoyable start.