ALERT - Changing Travel Requirements (March 2025)

Note> This is as of first quarter 2025 and we will update as new information is released.

I was preparing for a month in the United Kingdom, and I entered my passport details and other information into the Delta website, it alerted me I must apply for an "ETA". After verifying the information, I learned this was a new UK travel requirement in effect for landings after Jan 8, 2025 - My arrival in London was to be Jan 11. So, I applied December 23 and approved in 1 hour. No problem.

A great friend and traveler - Gustavo - was stopped at the airport boarding a flight for Australia. The gate agent informed him, as he was boarding, he needed the same documentation for Australia. He franticly texted me and I told him there would be an app and he could do it while standing there. The app informed him it could take 72 hours for a response. Thankfully he received his approval quickly - 15 minutes before boarding closed and made his trip.

The morale of the story - check entry requirements regularly even for countries you know well.

In recent months, several countries have updated their entry requirements, introducing electronic travel authorizations to enhance border security and streamline the entry process for international visitors. Here's an overview of some of these changes:

United Kingdom

The UK is implementing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for visitors from visa-exempt countries.

Key details include:

• Implementation Dates:

  • From January 8, 2025, travelers from non-European countries, including the United States and Australia, will require an ETA.

  • From April 2, 2025, this requirement extends to European visitors.

• Application Process:

  • Applications can be submitted via the official UK ETA app or the gov.uk website.

  • Applicants need to provide contact details, biometric data, and answer security questions.

  • The application fee is £10.

• Validity and Duration:

  • The ETA is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

  • It permits stays of up to six months per visit.

• Exemptions:

  • Irish citizens and individuals with a valid UK visa or resident permit are exempt from the ETA requirement.

Travelers are advised to apply well in advance of their travel dates, as processing can take up to three working days. A good article is linked here: The Times

European Union

The EU is set to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) for visa-exempt travelers.

Key points include: (mid-2025 target)

• Implementation Timeline:

  • ETIAS is scheduled to become operational six months after the Entry/Exit System (EES) is in place.

  • While specific dates are pending, travelers should monitor official EU sources for updates. It is expected to be operational mid-2025.

• Application Details:

  • Travelers will need to apply online, providing personal and travel information.

  • A fee of €7 is expected for applicants aged 18 to 70.

• Validity:

  • Once approved, the ETIAS authorization is valid for three years or until the passport expires.

• Purpose:

  • ETIAS aims to enhance security by pre-screening travelers before they arrive in the Schengen Area (Think European Union).

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Travelers planning to visit EU countries should stay informed about the ETIAS implementation to ensure compliance. Check here for info: Travel Europe

Japan

Japan is planning to introduce the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (JESTA) for travelers from visa-exempt countries.

Key aspects include:

• Purpose:

  • JESTA aims to reduce illegal immigration by screening travelers before arrival.

• Implementation Timeline:

  • A trial is expected to begin this year, with full implementation potentially by 2030.

• Application Process:

  • Travelers will need to declare personal information before traveling to Japan.

While full implementation may take several years, travelers should be aware of these forthcoming changes and monitor official Japanese government sources for updates. Current summary is linked here. JETSA Launch Planned.

Key Takeaways:

• As global travel requirements continue to evolve, it's crucial you stay informed.

• Consulting official government websites and trusted news sources before planning travel will help ensure a smooth journey.

• This should not stop you from Expanding Your Travel. Just an extra step and small cost to make that happen.

If you have an experience with new travel requirements, let us know !!

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