Channel Islanders set for faster border checks in major European hubs after UK-EU deal on eGates

The deal covers all British passport holders, including Jersey and Guernsey. Credit: ITV Channel

Channel Island passport holders will soon be able to use eGates for quicker entry to more European countries.

Travellers are often delayed at EU borders due to post-Brexit checks, but this is due to improve following an agreement between the European Union and the UK.

Limited European airports already allow British passport holders to use eGates, but with fresh momentum to speed up the entry process, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is optimistic that many will soon have a smoother travel experience.

He explains: "Today's deal will help British holidaymakers as we're confirming that they will be able to use eGates when they travel to Europe, ending those huge queues at passport control.

"I call on all EU members to help make this a reality without delay."

Jersey's Chief Minister and External Relations Minister are attending a UK-EU event at 10 Downing Street to set out their priorities for further discussions.

Deputy Lyndon Farnham adds: "We have worked closely with the UK Government for many months to ensure Jersey’s interests are properly reflected in UK-EU discussions.

"Detail surrounding agricultural trade and youth mobility with our European neighbours will be of particular interest to us, and we will continue to input into those discussions in the coming weeks."

However, no date has been set for when red tape will be cut across the board and it will be up to individual countries to decide on the best process for their border controls.

Separately, the delayed EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is expected to be brought in later this year.

It means that non-EU travellers, including British passport holders, will need to give further biometric data at border control to enter the European Union, such as fingerprints and face scans.

Once in place, passports will no longer need to be stamped and the data from these extra checks will be held for three years.

Meanwhile, the Bailiwick of Guernsey has announced that it will be increasing passport fees to the same level as the UK from 1 June.

A standard adult passport will set someone back an extra £7 with child ones rising by £5 - making them £107 and £74 respectively.

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