2025 New Travel Rules: Europe, UK, and Global Airports Bring New ETIAS, APD Hikes, and Cruise Travel Changes

Written By: Somudranil Sarkar

Somudranil Sarkar

Somudranil Sarkar is a literary artist whose writing blends precision with imagination, delving deep into human emotions and societal constructs. As a writer, he crafts stories that breathe life into abstract ideas, creating worlds where language serves as both paint and canvas. As an editor, Sarkar shapes narratives that resonate globally, elevating writing beyond grammar to tell meaningful, profound stories. His work challenges readers to reflect, question, and understand the world more deeply. With his unique vision, Sarkar pushes boundaries, leaving a lasting imprint on both literature and the way we connect through words.

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December 30, 2024 12:09 PM

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The year 2025 is set to bring sweeping changes to travel regulations, influencing how global travelers navigate borders and plan itineraries. These updates carry significant implications for the cruise industry, from streamlining passenger entry at international ports to reconfiguring costs for travelers. Key developments include the EU’s new Entry/Exit System, increased air passenger duties, and changes to visa and tourist tax rules in popular destinations.

The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) is a transformative development for cruise passengers entering the Schengen area. This automated IT system will replace manual passport stamping, requiring biometric registration such as fingerprints and photographs upon first entry. Travelers, including cruise passengers from the UK, will need to comply with these requirements for streamlined entry and exit processes over a three-year period. Cruise operators will need to adjust boarding logistics, especially for itineraries involving Schengen nations like Spain, Italy, and Greece.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) further impacts travelers, requiring electronic authorization for visa-exempt nationals entering 30 European nations. Costing €7 (£5.80) and valid for three years, ETIAS simplifies border checks but necessitates pre-approval, adding an administrative step for cruise passengers. Cruise lines operating in Europe may need to educate passengers about these new requirements to avoid delays or denied entry.

Rising tourist taxes across Europe also stand to affect cruise passengers. Greece, Portugal’s Azores, and France are increasing daily taxes in 2025. In Greece, visitors during peak seasons will pay up to €8 (£6.63) daily, while high-end accommodation in Paris will see nightly taxes rise to €11.38 (£9.42) for five-star hotels. Cruise travelers extending their stays in port cities will face additional costs, prompting careful budget considerations.

Changes to Golden Visa programs in Greece and Spain are also noteworthy. Greece has increased minimum investment requirements to €800,000 for key destinations like Athens and Mykonos, while Spain will discontinue property-based Golden Visas after December 2024. This affects cruise passengers seeking extended stays or residency through investment.

Airport security and passenger duties are evolving in ways that impact cruise connectivity. UK liquid restrictions remain unchanged, requiring passengers to limit liquids in hand luggage to 100ml containers due to delays in implementing advanced scanners. However, the TSA’s One-Stop Security program aims to eliminate redundant screenings for U.S.-bound travelers, reducing missed connections and enhancing the passenger experience.

Air Passenger Duty (APD) rises in April 2025 will increase flight costs for travelers heading to cruise embarkation points. Long-haul flights over 5,500 miles will see APD rates rise to £673 for premium classes, potentially shifting demand toward regional cruises. Meanwhile, airport expansions across the UK, including projects at Stansted, Heathrow, and London City Airport, promise smoother connections for passengers. These upgrades aim to streamline transit experiences for travelers connecting to UK-based cruise terminals.

For the cruise industry, these changes present both challenges and opportunities. Streamlined entry systems like ETIAS and EES promise faster border crossings but require additional passenger compliance. Rising costs from taxes and duties may alter demand, while infrastructure upgrades improve passenger experiences and enhance connectivity to cruise hubs. Adapting to these shifts will be crucial for cruise operators and travelers alike, ensuring seamless and enjoyable travel experiences in the evolving landscape of 2025.