— British holidaymakers hoping for a smoother arrival in Europe this summer may still face long queues, as a UK minister confirmed that access to electronic passport gates (eGates) in EU countries is not yet guaranteed.
Despite ongoing negotiations and speculation about reciprocal travel arrangements, Immigration Minister Tom Pursglove told Parliament that there is “no formal agreement” ensuring that UK citizens will be allowed to use eGates at EU airports or border crossings.
“We continue to work with our European counterparts to explore avenues for easing border procedures,” Pursglove said during a session in the House of Commons. “However, the decision ultimately lies with individual member states and the European Commission, and at this stage, no blanket access has been secured.”
The issue has gained traction as British travellers prepare for the busy summer season. Many had hoped for improved post-Brexit travel conditions after repeated assurances that talks were progressing. Currently, several EU airports, including those in Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands, do permit UK passport holders to use automated gates, but this remains inconsistent across the bloc.
Travel industry leaders have expressed concern over the lack of clarity. “It’s vital that passengers receive clear information before they travel,” said Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK. “Mixed messaging could lead to confusion and unnecessary delays at the border.”
The EU is also preparing to introduce its long-delayed Entry/Exit System (EES), a biometric border control system intended to streamline travel and enhance security for non-EU nationals. The system, expected to go live later this year, could further complicate matters for British travellers if reciprocal arrangements are not finalized.
Opposition MPs have criticized the government for failing to secure a definitive outcome ahead of the peak travel period. “This is yet another example of ministers over-promising and under-delivering,” said Labour’s shadow transport spokesperson, Sarah Jones. “British travellers deserve better.”
The Home Office said it remains committed to “constructive engagement” with European partners to expand the use of eGates, but stopped short of offering a timeline or specific expectations.
As holidaymakers weigh their travel plans, the advice from officials remains clear: check individual country requirements and prepare for possible delays at the border.