Three Big Changes in Travel for 2025

United Kingdom’s Electronic Travel Authorization

Beginning January 8, 2025, Americans (and Canadians) will both be required to apply and get approved for the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) when traveling to the U.K.

The ETA will be required for everyone regardless of how long they are staying in the U.K. or their reasons for travel, including simply connecting through a U.K. airport. It essentially grants permission for travelers to be in the U.K. as part of the country’s mission to modernize its immigration system and strengthen its border.

Applicants will have to fill in their information on the U.K. government website or via the U.K. ETA app. The application requires a photograph and some personal details, including passport information, along with a £10 (approx $13.09 USD) application fee.

The GOOD news: One person can apply for the whole traveling party. The process is said to be “simple and fast” and applicants shoul get a decision within three working days and will be valid for 2 years once approved.

The BAD news: If an ETA application is refused, travelers will need to apply for a visa instead.

REAL ID

It’s finally here. After multiple postponements, REAL ID requirements will finally go into effect beginning May 7, 2025. What does this mean? In order to fly with your driver’s license as your form of identification, it must be REAL ID compliant. Most REAL ID cards have a star at the top. If you haven’t secured your REAL ID compliant license, there’s still time, but DON”T DELAY. Without one, you will need a passport to travel by plane.

New Entry/Exit System for Europe

Europe is planning to launch its new Entry/Exit System (EES) for all non-Europeans starting sometime in 2025. The EES will be for travelers who do not have a short-stay visa or are not staying more than 90 days in a 180-period, which typically means all U.S. travelers. Just like the ETA, the EES will likely require travelers to enter some personal data, along with entry and exit dates.

The EES was supposed to be operational in 2023, but much like the REAL ID, has been postponed multiple times. Currently, Europe says that the EES “is due to start in 2025” but has not yet given an exact date. The EES lays the groundwork for the launch of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will require all non-European travelers to apply for, and pay for, a visa before entering any of the EU member nations. The ETIAS is scheduled to go into effect six months after the EES launches.