✈️ 3 New Europe & UK Travel Rules Every International Traveler Should Know

If you’ve got Europe or the UK on your travel wish list in the next couple of years, there are some new rules you’ll want to know about. Starting in 2025 and 2026, both regions are rolling out digital systems that will change the way visitors enter and exit their borders.

The good news? These updates aren’t meant to make travel harder—they’re designed to make it more secure and efficient. But since it’s something new, it helps to know what’s coming so you’re prepared (and not caught by surprise at the airport!).

Here’s a simple breakdown of the three systems:

🛂 The Entry/Exit System (EES) – Launching October 2025

Remember those passport stamps you collect when you enter and exit a country? Those are going away in the Schengen Area (most of Europe). Instead, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will log your entry and exit digitally.

Here’s what will happen:

• Your first trip after October 2025 will include a biometric check (fingerprints and a quick facial scan).

• Once you’re in the system, future entries should be faster—especially at airports with automated passport gates.

• This isn’t a visa—it’s simply a new way to track the 90-day visa-free rule in Europe.

The only thing to keep in mind: your first trip after the system launches may take a little longer at the border while your information is collected.

🌐 The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) – Late 2026

If you’re from the U.S. (or another visa-exempt country), you’ll need to apply for ETIAS before traveling to Europe starting in late 2026.

Here’s what to expect:

• It’s not a visa—just a quick online pre-travel authorization.

• The application is simple: fill out a form, pay a small fee, and approval usually comes within minutes.

• Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for three years (or until your passport expires).

• You’ll need it for short stays of up to 90 days in a 180-day period.

Think of it like TSA PreCheck, but for international travel. A little extra step before your trip, but worth it for smoother travels.

🇬🇧 The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) – Rolling Out in 2025

The UK is also introducing its own digital entry system. Starting in 2025, most travelers who don’t need a visa (including Americans) will need to apply for an ETA before entering the UK.

Here’s how it works:

• Short online application + small fee.

• Approval comes quickly and is tied to your passport.

• You’ll need it before boarding your flight to the UK.

⚠️ Important: There are already fake websites pretending to be the official ETA application page. Only apply through the official GOV.UK site or the official government apps. If it looks sketchy, it probably is.

✨ What You Need to Do Now

The best part? None of these systems are active yet.

• UK ETA → rolling out through 2025.

• EES → starts October 2025.

• ETIAS → begins late 2026.

That means you don’t need to apply for anything today. But being aware now will make sure you’re not scrambling later.

💡 Final Thoughts

Travel to Europe and the UK is still as exciting as ever—the castles, the coastlines, the wine (oh, the wine 🍷). These new rules just mean a bit more preparation before you pack your bags.

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to keep track of it all on your own. That’s what I’m here for. As your travel advisor, I’ll make sure you know what’s required, when to apply, and where to find the real, official websites. That way, you can spend less time worrying about paperwork and more time dreaming about your next adventure.

👉 Ready to start planning your European getaway? Let’s chat today!