UK citizens planning to travel to the European Union (EU) next summer will face new requirements, including a €7 visa-waiver charge and biometric checks at borders. These changes are part of the EU’s efforts to enhance border security and streamline entry procedures for non-EU visitors.
Key Points:
- European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias):
- Set to be introduced by May 2025
- Requires UK citizens to apply for a €7 travel authorisation before entering the Schengen area
- Valid for three years or until passport expiration
- Exemptions for travelers under 18 or over 70
- Entry and Exit System (EES):
- Launching on November 10, 2024
- Requires biometric information (fingerprints and facial scans) at the border
- Affects travel through Port of Dover, LeShuttle in Folkestone, and Eurostar at London’s St Pancras
- Timeline:
- EES implementation: November 10, 2024
- Etias introduction: Expected by May 2025
- Application Process:
- Online application requiring personal information, including address, employment details, and criminal convictions
- Most applications approved within minutes; some may take 48-72 hours
- Transitional Period:
- Six-month period after Etias introduction
- Travelers expected to apply but not automatically refused entry if they meet other conditions
- Scope:
- Applies to the Schengen area (27 EU member states plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland)
- Does not apply to travel to Ireland or Cyprus (outside Schengen area)
These new measures, confirmed by EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson, are designed to enhance security and streamline border processes. The Etias system will mirror the US ESTA, requiring non-EU citizens from visa-exempt countries to obtain pre-travel authorization.
UK travelers should be aware of these upcoming changes and plan accordingly, especially for trips during the summer of 2025. While the new requirements add an extra step to travel planning, they are part of a broader EU initiative to modernize and secure its borders.
