Traveling to Europe/UK in 2025--Transit Authorizations Required.

Entry procedures for Europe and the United Kingdom are changing and travelers need to be aware of three new systems: Electronic Travel Authorization, the European Travel Information and Authorization System, and the Entry/Exit System.

Beginning Jan. 8, 2025, the UK will begin requiring Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) , a digital authorization linked to the applicant’s passport, that requires travelers to provide biometric details and additional information. ETA will replace the existing Electronic Visa Waiver Scheme and will be extended to travelers from Europe and the U.S. It will be required for short stays and transits, but not for Irish nationals or those with existing visas or permissions. 

The European Union (EU) will also introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) by mid-2025. This is a visa-waiver system requiring a €7 fee and additional security checks to strengthen border security by digitally screening travelers from non-EU countries. ETIAS will apply to much of Europe and certain microstates. It will be mandatory for citizens of countries that currently do not need a visa to enter the EU, including the United States.

As of November 10, 2024, the Entry/Exit System (EES) began automating registration of non-EU nationals each time they cross an external EU border. The EES requires biometric passports and records personal and travel information.

Travelers are responsible for ensuring they have all required travel documents and authorizations, and we encourage you to keep an eye on travel sites for the government you will be traveling to, for their updated forms and restrictions.

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