Are you planning to travel to Europe or the UK this year? Then you need to know about the new travel rules that will go into effect in 2025. Read on to learn all about the upcoming changes and the introduction of the ETIAS in the Schengen Zone and the ETA in Great Britain.
What is the ETIAS?
The ETIAS, known as the European Travel Information and Authorization System, is a new travel authorization system for visitors to the European Union. Starting about 6 months after the implementation of the EES (Entry/Exit System) in 2025 travelers from visa-exempt countries, such as the United States and Canada, will need to obtain an approved ETIAS before entering the EU. Travelers from the UK will similarly require the ETIAS. The application process will require a passport, personal and travel information, along with a small fee.
What is this EES?
EES is an automated system for registering entry and exit data of all non-EU nationals (both those who require a visa and those who are visa-exempt) visiting the Schengen Area. It replaces manual passport stamps, improving accuracy and efficiency while enhancing border management. It will track all non-EU nationals entering or exiting the Schengen Area.
It will record a traveler's name, biometric data (fingerprints and facial image), and date/location of entry and exit. The intent is to detect overstays, prevent illegal immigration, and enhance border security. The following chart details the difference between the ETIAS and the EES. Neither the EES nor the ETIAS have been implemented as of January 2025 but both are slated to go into effect this year - first the EES and then 6 months later the ETIAS.
Feature | ETIAS | EES |
Purpose | Pre-travel authorization | Tracks entries and exits |
Who is affected | Visa-exempt travelers | All non-EU travelers |
Application required? | Yes | No (automatic at borders) |
Fee | €7 | No fee |
Function | Security pre-check | Records entry/exit and overstay |
What is the ETA?
The ETA, or Electronic Travel Authorization, is the UK equivalent of the ETIAS. Travelers who do not currently require a Visa to enter the UK are now required to obtain the ETA prior to arrival. This includes travelers from the EU looking to enter Great Britain. As with the ETIAS you will require a valid passport in order to be eligible.
Why the Change?
The change in travel rules is driven by the need to enhance security and streamline immigration services. It is a response to evolving global travel patterns and security concerns. The aim of both the ETA and the ETIAS is to enhance security and minimize the risk of terrorism and illegal immigration within the UK/EU. The new rules align with international standards and best practices, ensuring more efficient and effective travel authorization processes.
When do the Changes go into Effect?
The new Europe travel rules are expected to go into effect in 2025, although the exact implementation dates has not been confirmed yet. Travelers should stay updated with announcements from the European Union regarding these changes and plan their trips accordingly. Be sure to check the ETIAS website to find out when applications will start being accepted. At the time of this writing, they are currently not accepting applications but you can sign up to receive email alerts. For those who already have European travel plans for the first half of 2025 don't worry; there will be a 6 month grace period in place once the requirements go into effect.
As for the ETA, obtaining the document is mandatory as of January 8th, 2025 and there is no grace period going forth. Airlines and carriers will check for an approved ETA before allowing you to board a flight or other means of transport to the UK. If your ETA application is still pending, you may be denied boarding.
Who is Affected by the New Rules?
All individuals traveling to Europe or the UK from visa-free countries, tourist and business travelers alike, will be affected by the new travel rules. If you currently have a nationality that requires applying for either a Schengen Visa or a UK Visa you will still need the Visa and will not require the ETIAS or ETA. Those planning an extended stay or transiting through Europe must also comply with the updated regulations. The ETA is strictly for England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales while the following countries will require the approved ETIAS document:
AUSTRIA
BELGIUM
BULGARIA
CROATIA
CYPRUS
CZECH REPUBLIC
DENMARK
ESTONIA
FINLAND
FRANCE
GERMANY
GREECE
HUNGARY
ICELAND
ITALY
LATVIA
LIECHTENSTEIN
LITHUANIA
LUXEMBOURG
MALTA
NETHERLANDS
NORWAY
POLAND
PORTUGAL
ROMANIA
SLOVAKIA
SLOVENIA
SPAIN
SWEDEN
SWITZERLAND
Categorizing Travelers: Visa-Free Countries
If you're planning to travel to Europe from a visa-free country, there are certain criteria you'll need to meet. Keep in mind that some countries might have additional requirements based on bilateral agreements. It's important to obtain travel authorization before your trip, even if you're exempt from getting a visa. Remember, the categorization of visa-free countries is subject to periodic review, so the list may expand or change over time. Not sure if you are living in a Visa-Free country? Check here.
Individuals Possibly Exempt from the Rule
While the new travel rules apply to most individuals traveling to Europe, there are certain exceptions to consider. Diplomatic personnel and government officials may have different requirements, taking into account their official positions. Additionally, travelers with special circumstances like medical emergencies may be exempt from certain regulations.
Exceptions also exist for individuals traveling for official government purposes, and the rules take into account humanitarian considerations. An individual who permanently resides in Europe and possesses a residence permit or card for any of the countries requiring the ETIAS are also exempt from the new rule.
If you are transiting through a European airport to a destination outside of the Schengen zone then you will not require the ETIAS either as long as you remain in the international transit area.
The same is not true of the ETA. Even if you are only making a connecting flight in a UK based airport you are required to have the ETA regardless of whether you clear border control or not.
Do Minors Need an ETIAS or the ETA?
Minors, including infants, traveling to Europe or the UK will also need to obtain the appropriate document. Minors can apply for their own ETIAS or ETA, but parents or guardians are able to apply on their behalf. The application process for minors is the same as for adults, and a valid passport or other approved travel document is necessary.
Key Components of the 2025 Travel Rules
Familiarize yourself with the pre-travel requirements for a smooth journey. Understand the during travel regulations to ensure a hassle-free experience. Stay informed about any updates or changes to the key components of the travel rules. Also, make sure to keep up with the latest information from government services.
How to Apply for the ETIAS or the ETA
Applying for the ETIAS is a pretty simple process. Just visit the ETIAS website and fill out the application form. During the application process, ensure that you provide accurate and updated personal information for the following:
Your name(s), date and place of birth, sex, citizenship(s), home and email addresses as well as phone number
Your parents’ first name(s)
Travel document details - passport number, place of issue, etc.
Your level of education and current occupation
The country of your first intended stay and the address of your destination
You may also be asked about any prior criminal convictions, incarcerations, drug use, previous European travel, and potentially medical history. You will need to submit any required documentation—a travel document (passport etc.) that is recognized by the EU is essential, as well as such as proof of accommodation or travel itinerary. As noted above, you will be required to indicate which country you will be staying in first, but once approved for the ETIAS you will be free to explore the Schengen zone. Additionally, remember to complete any health-related checks or vaccinations as these can change country by country and even week by week in this COVID era!
The application process for the ETA is much the same. The fastest way to apply is using the UK ETA app available in the Apple store, or the Google play store. If you can't use apps, you can also apply online through the website. Note: Individuals applying for a third party (such as a minor) are recommended to use the online application as opposed to the app. The process will take roughly 3 business days to obtain the approval. Below is a link to a short video about how to apply using the app. You will require an active passport in order to apply but submitting any travels plans are not required for the ETA.
Both the ETIAS and the ETA are digitally linked to the passport you used to apply and as such will not require you to carry any additional documentation.
What is the Cost?
The cost of the ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorization System, is 7 Euro for adults. Minors under 18 years old and seniors over 70 are exempt from paying the fee. It is paid online during the application process. ETIAS is valid for three years or until the passport's expiration date whichever comes first. With it you will be able to stay in the Schengen zone for up to 90 days in a 180 day period. Bear in mind this is a rolling period so it is best to keep track of the dates and durations of any stays if you travel there often.
The ETA will cost £10 to apply for everyone, minors and seniors included. The ETA lasts for 2 years and you can travel to the UK as many times as you want during that time. As with the ETIAS, if you get a new passport, you will need to get a new ETA.
During Travel Regulations
When traveling, it's important to be prepared for the regulations that come with it. Carry all required travel documents, including your travel authorization, and be ready for additional security screenings or checks during your journey. Make sure to comply with any specific regulations or protocols implemented by airlines or authorities, and follow any instructions or guidelines provided by immigration services. Lastly, maintain awareness of your surroundings and adhere to local laws and regulations.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to comply with the new travel rules is pretty straightforward. If you don't provide the required documentation and information, you will be denied entry at whatever border you are attempting to cross. This will be true for any travelers who are not exempt from the requirement.
Conclusion
While it is a new policy for both UK and Schengen bound travelers coming from non-visa countries, the concept is already in use in both Canada's Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and in the United State's Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA ). It simply makes sense that others would implement something similar. If a trip to Europe is in your future (as it should be!) then make sure you keep up to date on this new policy by signing up on the ETIAS and ETA websites for updates via email. What some help with preparing for a trip, check out our packing lists. For those American travelers who venture to Europe often, consider applying for Global Entry to speed up your return to the United States and gain TSA Pre-check status for security lines. Read about Global Entry here. Hope this helps you prepare for your upcoming voyages.
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