Travel News
UK ETA
As of January 8, 2025, U.S. citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to travel to the United Kingdom for short visits, tourism, or business. To apply, go to: www.GOV.UK Provide a valid passport, email address, and a valid credit card. Take digital photos of your face and passport. The ETA online costs $13 and is valid for two years. You can apply online or through the UK app.
REVISED TIMELINE FOR EES AND ETIAS
On March 5, 2025, EU Home Affairs endorsed a revised timeline for implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) and European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). The EES is expected to become operational in October 2025. ETIAS is expected to follow in the last quarter of 2026.
What is EES and what does this mean for Americans? EES is a biometric entry/exit system that will track the entry and exit of non-EU citizens at the external border of the Schengen area. This applies to Americans, who are traveling for a short stay to a European country using EES. EES will become operational first, then ETIAS will follow a few months after.
Do I need to register for EES? NO. EES is a biometric entry/exit system and does not require registration, whereas ETIAS travel authorization requires online registration before travel. For more information, visit https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
