Overview

• British and EU officials are close to finalizing a deal allowing UK passport holders access to e-gates at European airports, reducing post-Brexit travel delays.
• The agreement would eliminate the need for manual passport stamping for British travellers, streamlining border processes across the EU.
• The EU's Entry/Exit System, launching in October, will replace passport stamping with biometric checks, while a separate EU travel authorisation system is expected later this year.
• The UK recently introduced a £16 travel authorisation scheme for EU and other international visitors, mirroring the EU's planned system.
• Broader negotiations ahead of Monday's UK-EU summit include discussions on youth mobility visas, touring rights for performing artists, and a veterinary agreement to ease trade barriers.