If you’re a British traveller with an Algarve holiday booked for this summer, or you’re still in the planning stages, there’s one important update you’ll want to be across before you fly.
A new EU border system called the Entry/Exit System (EES) has been rolling out across Europe since October 2025, and it’s causing quite a stir in the Algarve. Hoteliers, tourism bodies, and travel agents are all calling on the Portuguese government to pause the system at Faro Airport during the peak summer season, and for good reason. Here’s everything you need to know, and why it shouldn’t put you off booking your Algarve villa or apartment this year.
What Is the EES and Why Does It Matter?
The Entry/Exit System is a new EU-wide border control programme that replaces the old passport stamp with biometric registration, think fingerprint scans and facial recognition, for all non-Schengen visitors entering Europe. That means British travelers, along with Americans and Canadians, are now subject to this process every time they enter or exit an EU country.
The system has been phasing in gradually since October 2025, with full implementation at all borders expected by March 2026. While the long-term aim is to improve border security and reduce overstays, the short-term reality at busy airports like Faro has raised some serious concerns.
Why Are Algarve Tourism Bosses Worried?
Faro Airport is the gateway to the Algarve, and UK visitors make up over 50% of summer arrivals. With peak season running from June to September, tourism associations and hotel groups have formally asked the Portuguese government to suspend EES at Faro during those months, fearing hours-long queues and a damaging first impression for visitors.
Lisbon Airport actually paused the system for three months in late 2025 after trial disruptions, and the Algarve’s tourism industry is pushing hard for the same treatment at Faro. The government and EU authorities are being urged to act quickly, either by suspending the system or significantly boosting staffing and self-service kiosks before the summer rush arrives.
Should This Affect Your Booking Plans?
In short: no. The Algarve remains one of Europe’s most beloved holiday destinations, and the industry is working hard to ensure arrivals remain smooth and stress-free. A temporary suspension or operational fix is widely expected before the summer peak.
What you can do is stay informed and plan ahead:
- Arrive with extra time to spare at Faro Airport, particularly during busy periods.
- Pre-register your biometric details online if the option becomes available, this can significantly reduce queue times.
- Book direct with a trusted local agency so you have on-the-ground support if anything changes.
At Algarve Holiday Lets, we’ve been welcoming British families to the Algarve since 2003. We’ll always keep our guests updated with the latest travel information so you can arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy your holiday.
Book Early, Book Direct
With most guests booking 6 to 12 months in advance, the best properties fill up fast. If you’ve been sitting on the fence, now is the time to secure your summer escape.
Browse our full collection of villas and apartments across Carvoeiro, Lagos, Ferragudo, and Praia da Luz, or get in touch with our team and we’ll help you find the perfect property for your family.
Sources:
- Travel and Tour World — Algarve and Portugal Hoteliers Urge EES Suspension
- The Portugal News — Hoteliers Call for Suspending EES
- Algarve Daily News — Faro Airport Must Suspend New EES Border Checks