Stay Ahead: Essential Travel Updates for 2025
Did you know that 1 in 4 Brits travel without insurance?1 This leaves travellers vulnerable to unexpected costs from medical emergencies, delays, or cancellations. As we look ahead to 2025, several changes – ranging from new border systems to tourist taxes – are set to impact global travel. Whether you’re venturing across Europe, exploring the U.S., or travelling closer to home, preparation and staying informed are key to ensuring smooth journeys.
Major Travel Changes and Practical Tips for Travel in 2025
When is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES) Being Introduced?
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) was expected to be released in 2024. After several pushbacks, it is now set to be introduced in early 2025. The new system is designed to track the movements of non-EU nationals entering and exiting Europe and the Schengen Area. Visitors will be expected to provide details of their trip as well as have their fingerprints recorded and a photograph of their face taken at border control. The system hopes to provide better security and reduce visa overstays.
What to Expect: Initial rollouts at high-traffic points such as Dover, Calais, and major airports may cause delays.
Our Top Tip: Always allow extra time for security checks, particularly during busy travel periods like summer holidays.
For more information on the EES and how it will impact your travel, head over to Travel Insurance Explained.
What is an ETIAS and how will it affect my travels in 2025?
From May 2025, British citizens will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) to visit the EU and Schengen Area. The process is similar to how the ESTA applies for those visiting America.
How to Apply: The online application is simple and costs €7. It’s valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Applications are likely to be approved efficiently, but make sure to apply at least a few weeks in advance – just in case.
The Introduction of Tourist Taxes in Spain and Italy
As tourism continues to rise, several European countries have introduced or expanded tourist taxes to manage congestion and fund sustainability initiatives.
- Spain: In Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, tourist taxes will be increasing, with rates varying depending on the area. Mallorca, for example, is implementing a tax that ranges from €1 to €4 per person, per night. Tourist tax tends to be collected by your accommodation upon check in or check out.
- Italy: Officials have announced they’re considering a fee for those who are staying in several of Italy’s popular cities. In addition, famous landmarks including the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum may introduce an entry fee.
Our Top Tip: Always check the local tourist tax rates before you go and factor these costs into your travel budget.
Improvements to the U.S Entry System
For 2025, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Mobile Passport Control app and the widespread use of facial recognition technology at airports will make the entry process faster and more efficient for travellers.
The CBP Mobile Passport Control app is suitable for UK visitors who are eligible for the Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) and have an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA). UK citizens who are travelling to the US for tourism or business, for stays of up to 90 days, will be able to use the app to speed up their entry process.
- How to Use the App: Download the CBP Mobile Passport Control app before your flight. The app allows you to pre-fill your customs declaration form and submit your passport information, which can help you avoid long queues at immigration. To use the app, you will need to create a profile, answer some questions about your trip, and then present a QR code to a CBP officer when you arrive at the airport.
It’s important to note that not all US airports participate in the Mobile Passport Control program, so you should check the list of participating airports before your trip. Additionally, the app is not available for all travellers, so you will need to make sure that you are eligible before downloading it.
The Importance of Checking Your Passport Before Travelling in 2025
In 2024, an estimated 200 UK travellers per day were denied boarding for not meeting the passport validity criteria2. When travelling internationally, it’s essential to be aware of passport validity requirements, which can vary depending on the destination. Two key rules to keep in mind are the 3-month rule and the 6-month rule:
- The 6-Month Rule:
Many countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and some Asian countries, require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date you intend to return to the UK. This applies even if your trip is shorter than six months. - The 3-Month Rule:
Most European countries, including the Schengen Area, require that your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended return date to the UK.
Always check the entry requirements for each country you plan to visit. Requirements can vary, so it’s important to check the Government Travel Advice or contact the embassy if you are unsure. Review your passport’s expiration date well before your trip to ensure it meets the required validity period. Processing times with the UK Passport office can take anywhere from 2 to 10 weeks depending on demand. Not meeting the passport validity requirement for the country/countries you are travelling to can result in you being denied boarding.
Do I need a EHIC or a GHIC When I Travel Abroad?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is being phased out. In 2025 all existing EHICs will expire so you will need to replace it with the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). The GHIC is free of charge and entitles you to free or discounted healthcare abroad. You can apply for one via the NHS website.
Does Travel Insurance Cover Adverse Weather?
As extreme weather events such as heatwaves, wildfires, and floods become more common, it’s important to make sure your travel insurance includes coverage for weather-related cancellations and delays. This isn’t widely available as standard so be sure to check your policy will cover for force majeure/natural disasters.
These changes highlight the importance of early planning and staying informed. Whether it’s checking your passport, budgeting for tourist fees, or downloading useful apps, preparation is essential for a stress-free trip.