Greece’s Entry/Exit System (EES) has been operational since April 10, 2026. This system is now active at all Greek border crossings, including major airports. The implementation was confirmed for non-EU nationals as of March 30, 2026.
Current Status of EES in Greece
The EES is fully operational. However, airports can temporarily disable biometric capture during peak congestion. This practice is intended to manage severe wait times effectively.
- Biometrics can be paused for up to six hours at one crossing.
- Any pause must be reported to the European Commission.
- The central EES database continues to operate even when biometrics are temporarily suspended.
It’s important for travelers to be prepared for full biometric registration upon their first crossing into Greece.
Border Registration Process
At the initial border crossing, the registration includes:
- A facial image taken at the border.
- Four fingerprints scanned upon arrival (exemptions exist for children aged 11 and under).
- Personal passport data and entry details.
This digital record remains valid for three years, facilitating faster processing for subsequent trips to Greece or any Schengen area country.
Airport Wait Times in Greece
As of June 10, 2026, travelers can expect longer wait times at passport control, especially during the peak months of July and August. The biometrics step has contributed to increased processing times. For example, some travelers have reported waits of nearly two and a half hours at Athens International Airport.
Key Airports and Wait Times
| Airport | Busiest Period | Expected Wait Time |
|---|---|---|
| Athens (ATH) | Jul–Aug, Dec | Up to 2.5 hours |
| Heraklion (HER) | Jul–Aug | Long wait times due to heavy holiday traffic |
| Rhodes (RHO) | Jul–Aug | Possible delays during peak travel times |
| Thessaloniki (SKG) | Jul–Aug | Expect longer non-EU queues on weekends |
| Santorini (JTR) & Mykonos (JMK) | Jul–Aug | Long queues even with moderate traffic |
Tips for Faster Clearance
To streamline your passport control experience, consider the following tips:
- Arrive at least 2.5 hours before departure.
- Prepare your passport in advance for quick accessibility.
- Note that your EES record lasts for three years, facilitating future entry.
- Allow extra time for connections, especially during peak travel weeks.
- Check live airport conditions beforehand to stay updated.
FAQs About EES
- Is EES currently paused in Greece? No, it is fully operational.
- What are the expected airport queues? Queues can reach up to 2.5 hours at peak times.
- Does EES apply to all travelers? No, it applies only to non-EU nationals.
- Are British travelers subject to EES? Yes, they must register biometrics like all other non-EU visitors.
- Do I need to register each time I visit Greece? No, your EES record is valid for three years after the first registration.
Travelers are advised to stay informed about the EES and plan their trips to Greece accordingly. For reliable updates, individuals may refer to official sources and travel advisories.
