By
Laura Hyde |
Interferry, the global association representing the ferry industry, is calling on European Union (EU) authorities and member states to adopt a “pragmatic approach” to the new Entry/Exit System (EES) rules ahead of the peak summer season. The EES requirements, which have been in effect across the EU since 10 April 2026, apply to all non-EU travellers entering or leaving the Schengen area and require first-time registrants to provide fingerprints and a facial photo.
The call comes following severe congestion during the May public holidays. Interferry has warned without immediate flexibility and better passenger communication the summer season will face widespread disruption.
“The chaotic situation witnessed in several European ports this May unfortunately proved the industry’s worst fears,” said Johan Roos, director of regulatory affairs at Interferry. “Authorities are simply not equipped to handle sharp increases in passenger volumes. Families should not be exposed to exhausting, multi-hour queues at the start of their well-deserved holidays.”
There have been significant delays on ferry routes throughout Europe because, according to Interferry, systems for verifying compliance with EES requirements have not been adequately implemented. This is because maritime operators must manage a complex mix of travel forms, including foot passengers, private cars, buses and freight trucks, all of which makes the one-size-fits-all digital border checks exceptionally difficult to deploy without halting the flow of traffic.
“Member states must improve their mitigation efforts and proactively apply the legal flexibilities within the EES framework,” said Roos. “Furthermore, EU authorities must seriously consider suspending these rules until all member states are properly equipped, ensuring this critical, travel-intense summer season does not collapse into severe border disruptions.”