Eurostar Ends SmartCheck Biometric System as London Prepares for EU E-Gates

Eurostar is discontinuing its SmartCheck facial biometric system, which provided contactless fast-track check-in for Business Premier and Carte Blanche/Etoile holders. The system, developed in partnership with iProov and launched after successful trials in late 2022, allowed eligible passengers to complete ticket and identity verification processes without physical documentation.

Concurrent with this change, London is preparing to implement new EES (European Electronic System) e-gates as part of broader European Union border control modernization efforts. The EES e-gates use biometric data, including facial images and fingerprints, for traveler identification and verification. This system has faced numerous delays, with its previous aborted launch having been previuosly scheduled for November of 2024. French authorities have warned that the implementation could lead to increased wait times at border checkpoints, particularly during the initial rollout phase.

The EES system represents a significant evolution in automated border control technology, designed to replace the current manual passport stamping process. The system will create a digital record of all non-EU travelers, including entry and exit dates, and any entry refusals. This digital transformation aims to enhance both security and processing efficiency at international crossing points while helping authorities better monitor visa compliance.

These developments reflect the ongoing transition in travel security and border control systems across Europe. The EES e-gates will complement existing automated border control solutions already in use at many European transit hubs, forming part of a comprehensive strategy to modernize border management infrastructure. The implementation comes as other European nations, including Norway, are also advancing their automated border control capabilities through similar e-gate deployments.

Source: Business Traveller

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January 29, 2025 – by Ali Nassar-Smith

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