No action for Channel Islanders ahead of EU change

Fingerprints will be collected at automated kiosks

People travelling from Jersey and Guernsey do not need to take action before travel now a new entry/exit system (EES) has been launched by the European Union (EU).

Justice and Home Affairs (JHA) and the States of Guernsey said the new system aimed to strengthen security and it marked a "significant shift" in border control procedures for non-EU nationals travelling to the Schengen area.

The JHA said travellers from Jersey and Guernsey visiting any of the 29 countries for short stays would be required to register their fingerprints and have a photo taken.

JHA said there was no cost for an EES registration and there was no need to prepare before travelling.

"It will automate border checks, replacing the current practice of manually stamping passports and help authorities monitor overstays and reduce illegal migration," it said.

Countries within the Schengen area include France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece.

The system also includes the non-EU States of Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

JHA said the system would be gradually phased in over six months at EU entry points.