Travel information
EES FAQ
Additional questions and answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the EU Entry Exit System in place for car passengers?
Please be advised that the EES system has not yet been fully implemented for cars at the Port of Dover. Passengers should continue to travel to the Eastern Docks as usual upon arrival. Please note that biometric registration will not be taking place at this time.
Kindly allow extra time for these additional checks when arriving.
Are there separate lanes for non-British passport holders travelling through the port?
There are currently no separate lanes for EU passengers at Dover. All (non-coach) traffic is required to use the existing French Border control kiosk at the Eastern Docks. A purpose-built Western Docks facility for third-country nationals cannot yet be brought into use due to the French Entry/Exit System (EES) technology not being operational at present.
This means all vehicles, regardless of nationality or documentation (including holders of EU passports), are processed through the same routes alongside all other departing traffic. As a result, queues can build during peak periods, particularly at busy holiday times.
We fully appreciate how frustrating this is, especially when wait times are longer than expected. The Port has made significant investment and preparation for the new EES facility away from the Eastern Docks, but until the French border systems is fully operational and the process is activated, we are unable to separate traffic flows or use the additional infrastructure.
We continue to work closely with the relevant authorities to improve processing times and reduce delays wherever possible.
Can we pre-register for EES before travelling to the Port of Dover?
Pre-registration for the EES using the official Travel to Europe app is optional, but currently supported only in certain countries.
It is not yet available for the Port of Dover, for travel to France.
What does the EU Entry Exist System do?
For more information regarding EES, please visit
Why is my biometric data stored?
The Entry/Exit System (EES) stores biometric data, including four fingerprints and a facial image, along with passport details and records of each entry to and exit from the Schengen Area.
This information is used by EU authorities to strengthen border security, improve border checks and help prevent and investigate serious crime. Biometric data is stored in line with EU data protection regulations.
What kind of passport do you need to use the self-service kiosks for EES?
You need a biometric passport embedded with an electronic chip