Planning to travel in 2025? Here are some new requirements to know before booking your trip

If you’re planning on flying in 2025, there are a couple new requirements you’ll want to keep in mind, especially if you’re heading to the United Kingdom or other parts of Europe. While some of the requirements don’t take full effect until later this year, being prepared could save you from extra stress ahead of your trip.

First, for those planning to stay in the U.S., you’ll soon need a Real ID in order to board any domestic flight. Starting on May 7, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security will require every state and territory resident to provide a Real ID in order to board a domestic flight if they wish to use their ID to pass through the security checkpoint.

If your state-issued ID or driver’s license isn’t Real ID compliant, you will have to provide other forms of identification to pass through the security checkpoint. A list of those acceptable forms of identification can be found on the DHS website.

Real ID-compliant cards feature a marking in the upper top portion of the card of a gold or black star, or some symbol with a star in it. For instance, in Michigan a Real ID may feature a gold picture of the state with a white star cut out in the middle.

The Real ID does not replace your passport and will not allow you to travel internationally for cruises or other excursions the leave the U.S. For more information on how to obtain a Real ID in Michigan, visit the Secretary of State website.

If you’re heading to the U.K. or Europe, you’ll need to take an additional step ahead of travel to ensure you’ll be permitted to visit.

Starting today, before traveling to the U.K. you’ll need to apply for United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorization (UK ETA). The authorization is different from a traditional visa in that it is handled entirely online and is much more cost effective when compared to visa applications.

The UK ETA is valid for up to two years or whenever the passport it’s linked to expires. The UK ETA allows for multiple visits of up to six months at a time and costs about $12.50 to apply. For more information on how to apply, visit the UK ETA website.

Finally, those planning to visit Europe may have to take an extra step before traveling, but when you’ll need to take that step remains unclear. The European Union’s European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is expected to take effect in May 2025, and will be required for any U.S. national looking to visit 30 European countries.

The ETIAS will allow for visitors to enter the European nations “often as you want for short-term stays – normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period” according to the ETIAS website. However, a valid ETIAS authorization will not guarantee entry into the various countries. Border guards may still ask to see your passport and other documents in order to grant you the right to visit.

The ETIAS will remain valid for three years or until the travel document you used in your application expires. If you have previously visited Europe without a visa, you will need to apply for the ETIAS. The cost to apply for the ETIAS is approximately $7, however applications are not currently being accepted. For more information, visit the European Union website.