Jet2 urges other countries to follow Greece in suspending EES checks

Jet2 is urging other countries to follow Greece in suspending biometric checks for UK holidaymakers under the EU’s new Entry/Exit Scheme (EES).

The company is “engaging directly” with authorities across its network of destinations to consider suspending EES checks until processes and systems are ready. 

The company has written to and lobbied authorities extensively, including those in Greece, to delay the introduction of EES.

The Greek embassy stated in an “update for British passport holders travelling to Greece” that “as of 10^th April 2026, British passport holders are exempt from biometric registration at Greek border crossing points".

With flights and holidays on sale via 15 Greek airports this summer, representing more than 3.5 million seats on sale, the move by the country is expected to “significantly improve” the arrival and departure experience. 

Jet2 chief executive Steve Heapy said: “We applaud the Greek authorities for acting in the best interests of UK holidaymakers.

“Our customers work and save very hard for their holidays, and we will always do everything in our power to ensure they have the very best experience when they travel with us.

“We believe that pausing EES checks, until systems and processes are ready, will result in a much better experience for our customers and we are pleased to see that the Greek authorities agree.

“We expect a quick response in terms of demand for holidays to Greece as a result of this move, and we urge other countries to follow this common-sense approach and put holidaymakers first.”

Andreas Fiorentinos, secretary general of the Greek National Tourist Organisation, said: “Following Jet2’s recent announcement welcoming Greece’s decision to temporarily suspend biometric checks for British travellers under the EES system, Greece reaffirms its commitment to providing a smooth and visitor-friendly travel experience.

“Tourism remains a top government priority and a key pillar of the Greek economy. Special thanks are due to foreign minister George Gerapetritis for his swift and effective intervention, which helped ensure efficient procedures for UK visitors.

“UK holidaymakers are vital to Greek tourism, and facilitating their travel to Greece remains a strategic priority for the country.”