Big Changes For Europe Travel From 2025; ETA Now A Requirement For Countries Like The US, Australia And More

The landscape of international travel is undergoing a significant digital transformation, with new electronic entry systems being implemented worldwide. Among these changes, the European Union is introducing two major initiatives that will reshape how non-EU citizens enter its borders. Some of these changes will be implemented from January 8, 2025, onwards. Here are all of the other important details that you would need to know about these changes in entry requirements for Europe travel.

ETA Becomes A Requirement For Europe Travel In 2025

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System or the ETIAS will require Electronic Travel Authorisations or ETAs from people visiting the EU. This is applicable even to visa-exempt travellers from 60 countries, including Britain, America, Canada and Australia.

This online application process carries a modest fee of €7 (₹619) and may take up to 96 hours for approval. Alongside ETIAS, the EU is launching the Entry/Exit System or EES, originally planned for late 2024 but now postponed to 2025.

This sophisticated system will replace traditional passport checks with biometric verification, using facial recognition and fingerprint scanning to process non-EU nationals at borders. The EES will operate across 29 EU member states. Although, unlike ETIAS, it doesn’t require pre-travel arrangements.

Also Read: Which Country’s Schengen Visa Is Most Popular Among Foreign Nationals? Here’s All About Visa Trends And Preferences

Applies To Countries Exempt From Short-Stay Schengen Visa

The EU’s official travel portal positions these changes as necessary modernisation efforts. They are aimed at managing the surge in post-pandemic travel and reducing queue times at immigration. These systems mirror similar arrangements already functioning in countries like Australia, Canada and the United States.

The added benefit of helping prevent identity fraud and visa overstays will also be there. However, these digital innovations have sparked debate. Critics argue that the additional costs and processes might disadvantage younger travellers and those with limited means.

There’s also nostalgia for traditional passport stamps, which many consider cherished mementoes of their journeys. The success of these digital entry systems remains to be seen. While they promise greater efficiency and security in border management, questions persist about their accessibility and reliability.

As more nations embrace digital travel documentation, the balance between convenience and practical considerations continues to be a point of discussion in the travel community.

Also Read: What Is A Schengen Transit Visa? From Documents Required To Process, Here’s Your Guide To Applying For It!

What do you think of these new changes? Let us know in the comments section below!

Cover Image Credits: Canva Pro Images

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First Published: December 24, 2024 11:18 AM