There are current new visa requirements being adopted across the UK and Europe over the next few months. Here are some details which gives a very brief synopsis but we strongly recommend that you familiarise yourselves with the various updates that will be released to ensure that you have the correct paperwork.
ETAs
For entry into the United Kingdom from 08 January 2025.
Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) are being introduced worldwide for visitors to the UK who do not currently need a visa for short stays, or who do not already have a UK immigration status.
Eligible non-Europeans can now apply for an ETA and will need an ETA to travel from 8 January 2025.
Eligible Europeans can apply from 5 March 2025 and will need an ETA to travel from 2 April 2025.
An ETA is a digital permission to travel – it is not a visa and does not permit entry into the UK – it authorises an individual to travel to the UK.
Click here to check what nationalities can apply for an ETA and when: Check Nationalities
View the full UK government fact sheet here: Fact sheet
EES
For entry into selected European countries. Estimated to start in 2025.
The EU Entry/Exit System – GOV.UK will be an automated IT system for registering travellers from third-countries, both short-stay visa holders and visa exempt travellers, each time they cross an EU external border. The system will register the person’s name, type of the travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and captured facial images) and the date and place of entry and exit, in full respect of fundamental rights and data protection. Entry/Exit System (EES)
It will also record refusals of entry. EES will replace the current system of manual stamping of passports, which is time consuming, does not provide reliable data on border crossings and does not allow a systematic detection of over-stayers (travellers who have exceeded the maximum duration of their authorised stay).
ETIAS
For entry into selected European countries. Estimated to start in 2025.
ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to any of these 30 European countries.
It is linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation.
What countries require an ETIAS to enter and who is required to have one: Requirements
View the European Union guidance on ETIAS here: EU Guidance
Your Wayte Travel consultant will be able to provide further information if required.
It is the travellers’ responsibility to ensure they have the correct documentation to enter or transit a country on the booked itinerary. This includes checking passports are valid for travel prior to departure. Wayte Travel Management cannot be held responsible if a passenger is denied boarding or entry to a country for any reason.