If you’re planning a trip to Europe, there are a few things that you need to know in between the usuals, like getting your Schengen travel insurance and packing your bags.
Travel requirements have been changing around the world. Whether it’s keeping up with modern technology, increasing efficiency, or preemptively responding to security threats, there are changes that travelers need to be aware of before booking their trips abroad.
1. You do not need to apply for ETIAS until the end of 2026
A popular topic in the travel industry is ETIAS, the European Union’s new travel requirement for visa-exempt travelers (which applies to citizens of the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and others).
ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization. Short for the European Travel Information Authorisation System, ETIAS permits travelers to enter the Schengen Area (and Cyprus).
The date for ETIAS has been pushed back a couple of times already, and was recently pushed back again. The new launch date is expected to be at the end of 2026.
While you don’t have to worry about it right now, if you’re planning to travel to Europe after ETIAS is operational, you will need to be ready to apply.
Luckily, applying for ETIAS is easy and 100% online. Through a secure online portal, you will be able to complete the entire application process, which consists of sharing some travel information, a few questions about your background, and a 7 euro fee.
Usually, your ETIAS will be approved in just a couple of minutes and will be sent to your email address.
There’s nothing to print out or send to anyone. An approved ETIAS is automatically linked to your passport. All you need to do is apply online and pay the fee (plus, the fee is waived for those under the age of 18 or over the age of 70).
2. If you are traveling to the United Kingdom, you need to apply for ETA
If England, Scotland, or Northern Ireland are on the itinerary, you need to apply for ETA before you travel.
ETA is similar to ETIAS, except it is already in effect, which means you will need to apply for it before your next trip abroad.
Like ETIAS, the ETA application process is entirely online. Short for Electronic Travel Authorisation, ETA is also a pre-travel authorization. Before traveling, you will need to upload a picture of your passport and your face to the official website, as well as pay a £10.00 fee.
Just like ETIAS, ETA, when approved, will be automatically linked to your passport.
3. Spain has new requirements for travelers
As of December 2024, Spain has new requirements that all travelers must adhere to. If you’re planning a trip to Spain, these requirements will likely affect you.
When renting a hotel, other accommodations, or a car, you will need to pass more than 40 pieces of information on to the company you’re renting from. This company will then be obligated to submit it to the Spanish government.
The type of information you will need to give includes traveler details like your name, country of residence, and where you were born. It also includes financial information like your card/bank numbers, depending on how you are paying.
This new requirement is already in effect, so the next time you travel to Spain, you may notice a more lengthy process to check into your hotel or pick up your rental car.
4. Italy has a new rental policy
If Italy’s on the agenda, it’s helpful to know that they recently changed their policy when it comes to short-term rentals (such as Airbnb, booking.com, etc.). This policy is in effect now.
One of the perks of short-term rental sites like Airbnb or Vrbo is being able to select an accommodation that offers self-check-in. This means you don’t have to worry about setting up a time with your host to check in. Self-check-in can be convenient when you’re traveling, especially if you aren’t sure what time you will arrive or you want some added flexibility.
Unfortunately, that option has gone away for travelers in Italy.
As a way to mitigate security risks, Italy launched a new policy where hosts must meet their renters in person.
If you are planning to book a private rental through a website like Airbnb, you will be required to meet with your host during check-in.
5. Greece’s tourist taxes have increased
For those traveling to Greece, it’s helpful to know that the country has increased its tourist taxes, which means your trip just got a little bit more expensive.
The taxes are increasing for short-term rentals (like Airbnb) and hotels.
If you’re traveling to Greece, you can expect a daily tax on your lodging rental. The exact dollar amount depends on where you are staying and the time of year.
On a similar note, Greece has established a new cruise tax. Travelers taking a cruise that stops in Greece may be responsible for paying this. The amount depends on the specific port.
6. A change in France visas for Americans
If you need to apply for a visa for your upcoming trip to France, the visa processor has changed in the States, Insurte travel insurance company reports.
Over the last several years, VFS Global has been the visa processor facilitating the French visa application process in the US. Since April of this year, TLScontact has taken over this important role.
TLScontact has opened new locations, and its application centers are in the same cities as VFS’s were.
On top of that, the visa process itself remains the same. Application centers are being operated by this new partner.
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