UK travellers heading to the Balearic and Canary Islands—including Majorca, Menorca, Lanzarote, and Tenerife—should prepare for possible longer wait times at border crossings starting April 10. This advisory follows the full implementation of the European Union’s Entry Exit System (EES), a new border management tool being introduced across 29 European countries’ external borders.
The Foreign Office has issued a warning that the EES could lead to heavier queues and increased processing times for UK visitors. Labour Party Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Alex Norris, emphasized the importance of planning ahead: “The EU’s Entry Exit System will be a significant change for Brits travelling this Easter. Always check with your transport operator in case extra time may be needed, both for your return to the UK and travelling to the EU.”
To mitigate disruption, the UK government has allocated over £10 million to support key transport hubs such as Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and the Port of Dover, which will facilitate advance checks before departure.
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The timing of these changes coincides with shifting holiday preferences amid unrest in the Middle East. Major travel companies like TUI report increased demand for the Spanish islands, with many holidaymakers avoiding destinations like Egypt, Turkey, and Cyprus. EasyJet is responding by adding more flights to these sun-soaked islands.
Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK Country Manager, stated: “Every Easter we see more customers choosing easyJet for our unrivalled network, choice, brilliant package holidays and great value – and this year we’re set to fly more than 30,000 flights across Europe to over 140 destinations. Easter marks a welcome chance for families, couples and friends to enjoy a break together, whether that’s a dose of early-spring sunshine or exploring one of Europe’s great cities. We’re continuing to offer even more flying to the destinations that matter most to our customers, always focused on making travel easy.”
UK tourists planning their spring or Easter holidays should allow extra time at borders and stay informed about travel requirements to ensure a smooth journey.