The UK government has announced £10.5 million in funding to help ports prepare for the new EU border checks that are set to be introduced this autumn. This financial support will assist the Port of Dover, Eurotunnel at Folkestone, and Eurostar at St Pancras in implementing the EU's new Entry/Exit System (EES).

The EES will require travellers from the UK and other non-EU countries to undergo digital border checks, including the capture of biometric data such as fingerprints and photographs. This system is intended to replace traditional passport stamping, with registration valid for three years after the initial entry. The government’s funding is aimed at equipping these ports with the necessary technology to ensure smooth processing and reduce queue times for travellers.

Initially scheduled to begin in 2022, the EES has faced several delays and is now expected to launch in November 2024. The funds will be used by the Port of Dover to expand its processing facilities, while Eurostar and Eurotunnel will focus on upgrading technology and training staff to meet the new requirements. Transport Minister Lilian Greenwood highlighted the importance of minimizing queue times at the ports, despite the EES being an EU-led initiative. Officials from Eurostar and Getlink, which manages Eurotunnel, have also emphasised their commitment to a smooth transition, having already invested significant resources in preparation for the system's rollout.

Each port is set to receive £3.5 million from the government to support these preparations, marking the first allocation of funds specifically aimed at preventing delays related to the EES. This investment is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring that the new border checks do not cause significant disruptions for travellers.