Upcoming Travel Updates: What Travelers Need to Know for Europe, U.K & U.S. Travel
- Darian Abraham
- Sep 24, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 4
If you're planning to travel between the U.S. and Europe or the U.K. in 2024-2025, there are a few updates you should keep in mind.
U.S. citizens traveling to Europe (Schengen Area)
Now delayed until 2026, travelers to the EU will eventually experience a new system called the Entry/Exit System (EES). Instead of traditional passport stamps, travelers will submit biometric data—like facial scans and fingerprints—upon entry and exit. EES is still expected to roll out in late 2024, but operational readiness may vary by country.
Additionally, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), originally anticipated for mid-2025, has now been officially postponed to 2026. It will launch sometime after EES is fully operational, likely in late 2026. This system is similar to the U.S.'s ESTA program.
ETIAS Details (for future planning):
Launch Date: Expected in late 2026
When to Apply: At least 96 hours before departure, once the system launches
Cost: €7 (approximately USD $7.75) — applies to travelers aged 18–70
Exemptions: Those under 18 or over 70 still require ETIAS but are exempt from the fee
Application Process: Done online; requires a valid U.S. passport, email address, and a credit or debit card. The form takes about 10 minutes and includes personal info, security, and health questions. Most applications are approved quickly, though some may need further review.
Travelers should continue to monitor the official ETIAS website for updated timelines and launch details.
U.S. citizens traveling to the U.K.
If you're heading to the U.K., you'll need to apply for a UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for short visits starting in 2025. This requirement applies to all U.S. travelers who do not already hold a visa or residence permit.
Key Details:
When to Apply: Applications open for U.S. citizens on November 27, 2024.
When It’s Required: The ETA becomes mandatory for travel starting January 8, 2025.
Cost: The ETA currently costs £10, but this will increase to £16 on April 9, 2025.
Validity: Each ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). You can use it for multiple visits of up to six months each.
Application Process:
Apply online or via the UK ETA app.
You’ll need:
A valid U.S. passport
A digital passport photo
Answers to basic security questions
Most travelers receive approval within three working days, often sooner.
Important Notes:
If you're planning to apply soon, consider doing so before April 9, 2025, to pay the lower £10 fee.
This ETA does not allow you to work remotely in the U.K. — a separate visa is required for that.
Schengen Area Citizens Traveling to the UK
Travelers from EU countries, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein are required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before visiting the UK for short stays.
Key Details:
When to Apply: Eligible travelers can apply beginning March 5, 2025.
When It’s Required: An ETA is mandatory for travel to the UK starting April 2, 2025.
Cost: The ETA currently costs £10, but this will increase to £16 on April 9, 2025.
Validity: An approved ETA is valid for multiple entries over two years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.
Application Process:
Apply online or through the UK ETA app.
You'll need:
A valid passport
A digital passport photo
Personal details and answers to standard security questions
Most applicants receive a decision within 3 business days, often sooner.
Exemptions:
British and Irish citizens do not require an ETA.
UK residents with valid immigration status are also exempt, but must show proof.
Transit exemption: If you're transiting airside through a UK airport (not passing through border control), you’re temporarily exempt from needing an ETA. This policy is under review and may change.
Pro Tip: If you're planning to travel soon, consider applying before April 9, 2025 to avoid paying the higher £16 fee.
UK citizens traveling to Schengen Area and US
Travel to the Schengen Area:
The implementation of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) has been delayed. It is now expected to become operational in the last quarter of 2026, with a transitional grace period extending into 2027. This means that UK travelers will not need to apply for ETIAS authorization until late 2026 or early 2027.euronew
ETIAS Details:
Launch Date: Expected in the last quarter of 2026, with mandatory enforcement likely beginning in 2027. The Independent
Who Needs It: All non-EU citizens who are currently visa-exempt, including UK citizens, will need to obtain an ETIAS authorization before traveling to Schengen Area countries for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).
Application Process: The application will be online, requiring a valid passport and a fee of approximately €7 (about £6). Once granted, the authorization will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Exemptions Due to Brexit:
UK nationals and their family members who are beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement are exempt from ETIAS; they can reside and travel in their EU host country and other European countries requiring ETIAS as long as they hold documents proving their status. New requirements to travel to Europe
Travel to the United States:
There are currently no new travel restrictions or requirements announced for UK citizens traveling to the US. UK travelers should continue to use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Program.
U.S. Domestic Travel
New airline rules took effect in the U.S. on October 28, 2024. Airlines are now required to provide automatic cash refunds for significant flight disruptions. In practice, if your flight is canceled or “significantly changed” (delayed beyond 3 hours for domestic flights or 6 hours for international flights) and you choose not to take an alternative flight, the airline must refund your ticket cost including any taxes and ancillary fees.
The rule also covers other paid services: if you paid for extra amenities (like checked baggage, seat upgrades, or Wi-Fi) and the airline fails to provide them (for example, your bag is lost or heavily delayed), you are entitled to a refund of those fees
.These refunds are to be issued promptly – within 7 business days for credit card purchases (20 days for cash or other forms of payment)– without the passenger having to specifically request it. As U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said, the rule “sets a new standard” so that passengers get their money back automatically when the airline owes them a refund/
REAL ID Enforcement Deadline (U.S.)
Every air traveler age 18 or older will need to present a REAL ID–compliant driver’s license (or ID card) or an acceptable alternative ID (such as a passport) to pass through TSA security for domestic U.S. flights. This deadline has been postponed multiple times in the past, but as of now it is firmly set for May 7, 2025.
Official Links - for more information, see the official sites below.
ETIAS for Europe (Schengen Area):
UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA):
https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa
REAL ID Information (U.S.):
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and is subject to change. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of the content, travel rules and regulations can vary and may be updated by the respective authorities without notice. We recommend verifying all visa requirements, travel authorizations, and other travel-related rules directly with official government sources or through your travel advisor before making any travel plans. We are not responsible for any decisions made based on the information provided on this website.
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