Non-EU citizens entering and leaving the Algarve will soon face new biometric checks as part of the European Union’s long-awaited Entry/Exit System (EES).
The system, designed to strengthen border controls and speed up processing, will begin its phased introduction on 12 October. Originally due to launch in 2022, its rollout has been delayed several times.
EES applies across all Schengen countries and requires non-EU nationals to register biometric data when crossing external borders. In Portugal, the change will impact the estimated 2.2 million British tourists who visit each year following Brexit.
Passengers will be required to scan their passports, provide fingerprints, and have their photograph taken before passing through passport control. A further photograph will also be taken upon departure.
Travellers holding a Portugal Golden Visa or a long-term residency visa will be exempt from these additional checks. The EU expects the system to be fully in place by 10 April 2026.
Paul Stannard, chairman and founder of Portugal Pathways, which supports private clients, families, and international investors with relocation, investment, tax, and residency in Portugal, commented:
“The introduction of EES has been expected but delayed for a number of years. However, it is now being phased in – slowly at first – across the EU, from October.
“While this will add minimal additional time at the airport for trips to Portugal, it does once again underline the benefits of the Golden Visa residency-by-investment programme.
“Those who take advantage of its myriad benefits will also be able to skip these new requirements and start enjoying their time in Portugal that little bit quicker.”
All biometric information will be securely stored by the EU for three years from the traveller’s last departure from the Schengen area.
