UK Holidaymakers Flying to Cape Verde and Gibraltar Face Fresh Travel Shock as New EASE Payment Rules and EU Entry/Exit Biometric System Spark Longer Airport Waiting Times

Written By: Manab Baidya

Manab Baidya

I am currently studying for MA in English while also currently pursuing Journalism at Dibrugarh University. Passionate about storytelling, media, communication, and creative expression through words. Working as a Content Writer in the travel and tourism industry, where I transform destinations, experiences, and cultures into engaging stories. Constantly learning, exploring new ideas, and building a journey driven by creativity, curiosity, and meaningful content. Believer in growth, good vibes, and the power of words to connect people across the world.

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June 19, 2026 21:58 GMT+5:30

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UK holidaymakers flying to Cape Verde and Gibraltar are being confronted with fresh travel disruptions as new pre-travel registration rules and expanded biometric border checks begin to reshape passenger movement. The introduction of mandatory EASE payment procedures for Cape Verde and tighter Entry/Exit System controls across Gibraltar-linked travel routes is expected to increase airport processing times, with travellers now required to complete additional digital formalities before departure and allow longer waiting periods at immigration checkpoints on arrival and exit.

UK travellers heading to Cape Verde and Gibraltar are being advised that new travel procedures are now influencing how smooth their journeys will be. While both destinations remain open and popular, updated entry systems and airport processing rules are changing the way passengers must prepare before departure. In Cape Verde, a mandatory electronic traveller registration system combined with airport tax payment rules has been tightened, with penalties for non-compliance becoming more significant from July. In Gibraltar, the introduction of biometric Entry/Exit System checks is expected to increase processing times at the airport. As a result, travellers are being urged to plan earlier, complete all formalities in advance, and allow additional time at airports to avoid unnecessary disruption.

Cape Verde Continues to Attract Strong UK Tourism Demand

Cape Verde remains one of the most in-demand Atlantic island destinations for UK holidaymakers seeking reliable sunshine, beach resorts and winter-sun escapes. Located off the west coast of Africa, the island nation is typically reached in around six hours by air from the United Kingdom. Its appeal is supported by year-round warm temperatures, coastal landscapes, and resort development across islands such as Sal and Boa Vista. Despite its popularity, the destination now requires greater attention to pre-arrival formalities, which are being enforced more strictly to manage border entry and streamline airport arrivals during peak travel periods.

Mandatory EASE Travel Registration System Now Required Before Arrival

All travellers entering Cape Verde are required to complete an electronic pre-registration process before arrival. This system, commonly referred to as EASE, is designed to collect passenger information in advance and support faster processing at arrival points. The form must be completed online prior to travel, and travellers are expected to carry confirmation of submission during their journey. Alongside this requirement, an airport security tax must also be paid in advance. Failure to complete either step may result in additional processing at arrival, including delays at immigration counters and administrative checks before entry is granted.

Higher Airport Charges Introduced for Non-Prepaid Travellers from July

From 1 July, a significant change in cost structure will apply to travellers arriving in Cape Verde without completing pre-registration and payment in advance. Passengers who fail to finalise their EASE form or airport tax before departure may be required to pay a higher fee upon arrival. Previously, charges remained consistent regardless of whether payment was made in advance or at the airport. Under the updated system, advance preparation has effectively become the standard expectation, with financial penalties introduced to encourage compliance. This change particularly impacts families and group travellers, where multiple passengers may be subject to additional charges if documentation is incomplete.

Importance of Early Preparation and Document Compliance for Cape Verde Travel

To avoid delays and additional costs, travellers are strongly advised to complete all Cape Verde entry requirements well ahead of departure. The EASE form should be submitted several days before travel, ensuring that confirmation is received and stored securely. Both digital and printed copies are recommended to prevent issues during airport checks or immigration processing. Airport tax payments should also be completed online in advance to avoid higher charges on arrival. Airline check-in procedures may require proof of compliance, meaning incomplete documentation could affect boarding clearance. Careful preparation is now considered essential for a smooth arrival experience.

Gibraltar Remains a Key Short-Haul Destination with Increased Airport Checks

Gibraltar continues to be a popular short-haul destination for UK travellers due to its unique geography, Mediterranean climate, and cultural blend of British and southern European influences. However, the travel experience is now being affected by changes in border processing systems. Increased airport checks are being introduced as part of wider European border modernisation efforts, which are expected to impact both arrival and departure procedures. While entry remains straightforward for most British passport holders, additional verification steps may now be carried out at the airport, particularly during busy travel periods.

Introduction of Biometric Entry/Exit System at Gibraltar Airport

A major change affecting Gibraltar travel is the implementation of the Entry/Exit System, which introduces biometric processing for non-European Union travellers. Under this system, passengers may be required to provide fingerprints, facial images, and passport data when crossing the border. The information is stored digitally and replaces traditional passport stamping. This system is intended to create a more secure and standardised method of tracking entry and exit across participating regions. However, the process requires additional time at border control, particularly for first-time registration, where biometric data must be collected and verified.

Longer Airport Waiting Times Expected During Peak Travel Periods

The introduction of biometric checks at Gibraltar Airport is expected to increase processing times, especially during peak holiday seasons when passenger numbers are high. Travellers may experience longer queues at both arrival and departure points as data collection and verification procedures are carried out. First-time users of the system are likely to face the longest delays, as full registration must be completed before travel records are established. Even returning passengers may be subject to additional checks depending on system requirements and airport traffic levels. As a result, airport authorities are advising travellers to allow extra time before flights.

Travel Disruption Risks and Importance of Adjusted Journey Planning

Both Cape Verde and Gibraltar highlight a wider trend in international travel where digital border systems and pre-travel authorisation requirements are becoming more common. While these systems are designed to improve security and efficiency in the long term, short-term disruptions can occur during implementation phases. Missed documentation, late registration, or insufficient airport arrival time can lead to unnecessary stress and potential flight delays. Travellers are therefore encouraged to reassess traditional travel timelines, allowing additional time for check-in, security processing, and border procedures when planning journeys to either destination.

UK holidaymakers flying to Cape Verde and Gibraltar are facing new travel disruptions as updated EASE pre-travel payment rules and mandatory biometric Entry/Exit System checks have been introduced, increasing airport processing requirements and creating longer waiting times at both departure and arrival points.

For Cape Verde, compliance with EASE registration and airport tax payment rules is now essential before departure. Confirmation should be carried throughout the journey to avoid complications on arrival. For Gibraltar, passengers should plan for extended airport processing times due to biometric Entry/Exit System checks, particularly during busy travel periods. Arriving earlier than standard recommendations is considered advisable. Across both destinations, the emphasis is increasingly placed on early preparation, accurate documentation, and flexible travel planning to ensure that journeys remain smooth despite evolving border requirements.