Written on 27^th November 2024

Update on What You Need to Know: Upcoming Travel Requirements for the EU & UK

The upcoming new year brings new travel requirements for the EU and UK. Visa-exempt travelers heading to European countries are about to need more than just a valid passport and an airline ticket. Here's what you need to know:

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for the United Kingdom

Starting January 8, 2025, citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, the United States and various other countries will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before traveling to the United Kingdom. The ETA will cost £10 and will be valid for multiple entries over a two-year period or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Applications can be submitted online, and approval is typically granted within three business days.

For detailed information and to apply, please visit the UK government's ETA page or download the UK ETA app. 

The ETA applies only to the UK and does not grant entry to Ireland or other European nations. Every traveler, including infants and children, must have an ETA linked to a specific passport. If your passport expires, you will need to reapply for an ETA. Airlines may deny boarding without a valid ETA. 

Applications for ETAs are currently being accepted from numerous nationalities. See the full list.

European Travel Information & Authorization System (ETIAS)

From May 2025, travelers from more than 60 visa-exempt countries will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization when traveling to 30 European countries. This electronic travel authorization will cost €7 and will be valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

ETIAS is designed to enhance security by pre-screening travelers before they arrive in Europe. Applications can be completed online, and most approvals will be granted within minutes.

For more information and to apply, please visit the official ETIAS website. We recommend that you apply for these authorizations well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any disruptions.

Please reach out to your dedicated Travel Specialist if you have any questions or need assistance with the application process.