Canada Joins Australia, United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, United States, and Thailand In Revolutionizing Travel With Digital Borders And Biometric Systems, Here’s What You Need To Know

Published on December 30, 2025

Canada joins Australia, the United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, the United States, and Thailand in revolutionizing travel with digital borders and biometric systems. Here’s what you need to know. As global travel continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, Canada joins Australia, United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, United States, and Thailand in reshaping the travel experience. By 2026, these nations will collectively introduce a series of digital border systems and biometric technologies that will change how travelers cross international borders. These advancements are part of a broader trend where technology and security are at the forefront of modern travel solutions.

The introduction of digital borders and biometric systems promises to streamline the entry process, ensuring travelers face fewer delays while enhancing security at border crossings. Each country, from Canada to the United States and Australia, has taken bold steps toward implementing systems that will require travelers to submit digital authorizations before even stepping foot at the airport. This shift will eliminate the need for manual passport stamping, offering a seamless and quicker entry process for tourists and residents alike.

For instance, Canada is enhancing its eTA system, expanding biometric data collection, and introducing new security measures that ensure only eligible travelers enter the country. Australia, already prioritizing Digital Passenger Declarations (DPD), will make these declarations mandatory for all incoming travelers. Meanwhile, New Zealand is integrating NZeTA with its traveler declaration system to move away from paper-based cards, emphasizing environmental sustainability and efficiency. In the United Arab Emirates, the integration of Emirates ID with Smart Gates will ensure faster and safer biometric identification. Thailand is not far behind, implementing digital arrival cards and a tourism tax that will help fund infrastructure projects while also improving the overall travel experience.

These countries are joining forces to create a future where travel is faster, safer, and more streamlined. From biometric facial recognition to automated visa processing, the digital border revolution is redefining the way travelers interact with border authorities.

As we look ahead to 2026, it’s clear that travel will never be the same. Canada, Australia, the United Arab Emirates, New Zealand, the United States, and Thailand are leading the charge, demonstrating how technology can reshape the entire travel experience. Digital borders and biometric systems will pave the way for a more secure and efficient future, bringing an exciting new chapter in the world of international travel.

The European Union: A Digital Future with ETIAS and EES

As one of the world’s most interconnected regions, the European Union (EU) is embracing digital transformation to enhance its border management systems. By 2026, the EU will introduce two groundbreaking initiatives: ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) and EES (Entry/Exit System). These advanced systems will not only streamline the process for millions of travelers but will also significantly boost security across the region.

ETIAS: A New Pre-Travel Authorization for Non-EU Citizens

The ETIAS system will be a pre-travel authorization mechanism that affects travelers from over 60 visa-exempt countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and others. Beginning in the final quarter of 2026, these travelers will be required to apply for authorization before traveling to the Schengen Area. The application process will be straightforward and relatively inexpensive, costing only €7, but travelers will need to submit their details at least several days before departure.

The introduction of ETIAS is expected to transform how the EU manages non-EU travelers. It provides greater control over who enters the Schengen Area, ensuring that travelers meet the required security, health, and visa conditions. The system aims to improve border efficiency, making entry more seamless while reducing waiting times at immigration counters. This system also offers an essential digital upgrade to traditional border control practices, providing a modern solution to global security challenges.

EES: Biometric Registration and Real-Time Tracking

The Entry/Exit System (EES), slated to be operational by April 10, 2026, will replace the manual passport stamping process with an advanced biometric tracking system. This means that facial images and fingerprints will be collected from travelers at the border, enabling automatic identification and tracking of individuals as they enter and exit the Schengen Area.

The EES system will help authorities detect overstays and manage border traffic more efficiently. By storing biometric data for up to three years, the system will automatically flag any traveler who overstays their permitted time in the EU. It will also facilitate smoother transitions between EU member states, reducing bottlenecks and streamlining the immigration process for all visitors.

This combination of ETIAS and EES will bring a higher level of security to the region, improving the detection of potential threats while enhancing the overall traveler experience.

The United Kingdom: ETA and the Digital Border Revolution

The United Kingdom (UK) is set to revolutionize its border control with the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system by February 2026. This move forms part of the UK’s broader vision to transform its border control into a digital-first system. Travelers from visa-exempt countries, such as the United States, Canada, and European Union nations, will be required to apply for an ETA before departure.

The application process will be simple, with a fee of £16, valid for two years and permitting multiple entries. This system will help to ensure that travelers meet the required criteria before even reaching the UK, thereby reducing the workload at border entry points and allowing authorities to better screen and control the flow of international passengers.

By requiring ETAs and integrating them into airlines’ boarding systems, the UK will ensure that only those with approved status can board flights, improving border security and reducing delays. The new digital approach will enhance both the experience for tourists and the security for residents, setting a precedent for digital border control systems globally.

The United States: REAL ID, Biometrics, and Touchless Travel

The United States is already making strides toward a fully digital travel experience with the introduction of REAL ID and an expanded use of biometric technologies. By 2026, the United States will require all domestic air travelers aged 18 and over to present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or a passport for boarding flights. This initiative, which began in May 2025, aims to enhance domestic air travel security by ensuring that travelers’ identities are properly verified before they board.

In addition to REAL ID, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is rolling out Touchless ID systems, which will use facial recognition at major U.S. airports like Atlanta and Los Angeles. This system eliminates the need for passengers to present physical identification, making the process faster, more secure, and more convenient. As more airports implement this system, passengers will be able to breeze through security without needing to hand over physical documents, reducing human error and speeding up the travel process.

These biometric solutions represent a monumental shift toward touchless travel, and they are expected to become the standard for security checks across the U.S., providing a safer and more efficient travel experience.

Singapore: Leading the Way with Passport-Less Travel

Singapore is at the forefront of biometric border control, with its Changi Airport already making significant strides toward a passport-less travel system. By 2026, Changi will be fully equipped to allow travelers to use facial recognition or iris scanning as their primary method of identification. This change will remove the need for physical documents such as passports or boarding passes, allowing for a smoother, faster process at the airport.

Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) will issue No-Boarding Directives (NBDs) to airlines, ensuring that only eligible travelers are allowed to board flights to the city-state. This measure is designed to enhance security and prevent unauthorized or undesirable individuals from entering the country. Travelers will be required to submit all necessary details in advance, and the ICA will use pre-arrival data to ensure that all passengers are properly vetted.

By 2026, Singapore’s adoption of biometric clearance systems will set a new global benchmark for seamless airport experiences, improving both security and passenger flow.

Thailand: Digital Arrival Cards and Tourism Tax

Thailand is embracing digital transformation with the introduction of the Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system, set to become mandatory by mid-2026. This system requires all travelers, including those from visa-exempt countries, to complete an online arrival form 72 hours before arriving in the country. The TDAC will ensure that all travelers are pre-vetted before they even reach the airport, allowing for a smoother and faster entry process upon arrival.

In addition, Thailand is finalizing the introduction of a tourist tax that will apply to air travelers. The 300 Baht entry fee (150 Baht for land/sea travelers) will help fund various tourism initiatives, including tourist insurance and the enhancement of infrastructure in popular tourist areas. The tax aims to ensure that Thailand can continue to offer a high-quality experience to visitors while maintaining sustainable tourism practices.

Brazil: e-Visa System and Reinstated Visa Requirements

Brazil is taking significant steps toward modernizing its border management with the e-Visa system, which requires travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia to apply online before traveling to Brazil. This system, introduced in 2025, will simplify the visa application process, making it more convenient for travelers while enhancing border security. The e-Visa system allows travelers to submit their applications online, reducing long queues and making the entry process faster.

Brazil is also introducing biometric passport scanning at major international airports, which will further streamline the entry process and improve border security. The implementation of these systems is part of Brazil’s wider digital transformation, which seeks to modernize and simplify the way the country manages international travelers.

Japan: JESTA System and Pre-Screening of Travelers

Japan is taking significant steps to modernise its immigration processes with the introduction of the Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA), which is expected to launch in 2028. However, by 2026, Japan will have the framework ready, and pilot phases will begin. JESTA will apply to visa-exempt travelers, such as those from the United States, Canada, the European Union, and several other countries.

The system will require travelers to submit an online pre-screening form before their departure. This form will capture essential travel information, including travel purpose, personal details, and other relevant data. By collecting this information before arrival, Japan will be able to evaluate and vet travelers based on their travel intentions and background, preventing illegal work and overstays. This digital pre-screening approach will significantly enhance border security while also making the entry process smoother and more efficient.

The JESTA system will help Japanese authorities manage immigration more effectively by ensuring that all incoming travelers are thoroughly vetted before they even step foot in the country. This will allow Japan to identify potential risks earlier, leading to a more secure and streamlined immigration experience. As digitalization takes a central role in border control, Japan will join other countries in adopting advanced technologies to safeguard its borders and manage the growing number of international visitors.

Australia: Prioritising Digital Passenger Declarations

Australia is rapidly advancing its digital technologies in border management, with a key focus on the Digital Passenger Declaration (DPD) system. By 2026, all travelers to Australia will be required to submit a DPD, a digital form that includes essential health and character declarations. This system is part of Australia’s broader push to improve border security, enhance efficiency, and ensure that all travelers meet the country’s stringent entry requirements.

The DPD will help Australian authorities assess each traveler’s eligibility before they even board their flights, minimizing the risk of non-compliant or unqualified passengers entering the country. Alongside the DPD, automated processing for skilled and regional visa applicants will be introduced, helping address labor shortages in critical sectors and streamlining the visa process for workers in demand. By leveraging digital solutions, Australia is positioning itself as a leader in the digital-first border control landscape.

United Arab Emirates: Smart Gates and Mandatory Travel Insurance

By 2026, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will fully integrate the Emirates ID system with airport Smart Gates across all international airports, including in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This integration will provide faster, more secure biometric identification for UAE nationals and residents, enabling quicker and more efficient entry and exit processes at immigration points. The Smart Gates system will not only streamline the flow of people but also improve the accuracy of identity verification.

Additionally, the UAE will implement a new requirement for all visitors to provide proof of UAE-approved health insurance as part of their visa application process. This ensures that tourists are financially protected during their stay and that the country can better manage healthcare costs. This mandatory insurance will provide comprehensive coverage, protecting both visitors and the UAE’s healthcare system from unexpected medical emergencies, making the country’s tourism industry more sustainable and secure.

Canada: Strengthening eTA and Biometric Expansion

Canada’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system, which was introduced to streamline entry for citizens from visa-exempt countries, will undergo refinements by 2026. These enhancements will include the introduction of secondary verification layers for specific nationalities previously granted visa-free access. This will ensure that travelers from certain countries undergo further scrutiny before entering Canada, reducing the risk of unauthorized entry.

Alongside these refinements, biometric data collection will be expanded to include a broader range of applicants, particularly temporary residents. This measure aims to increase the security of Canada’s immigration system, ensuring that biometric data is captured for all eligible travelers, especially those coming from high-risk regions. With these updates, Canada is prioritising security while maintaining efficient border management systems, making the country one of the most secure and streamlined destinations for international travelers.

New Zealand: NZeTA Integration and Increased Visitor Levies

New Zealand is taking significant steps towards fully integrating the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) with the New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) by 2026. This integration will phase out paper-based arrival cards and move towards a fully digital entry system. By leveraging technology, New Zealand aims to reduce paper waste, improve efficiency at airports, and enhance border security. Travelers will be required to submit their details online ahead of time, ensuring smoother processing upon arrival.

In addition, New Zealand will increase its International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) to NZD $100 by 2026. This levy is designed to address the environmental impact of tourism and fund the country’s conservation efforts. The funds generated will help protect the country’s natural heritage and ensure that tourism remains a sustainable and environmentally friendly industry. The increased levy will further cement New Zealand’s commitment to responsible tourism, ensuring that visitors contribute to the preservation of the nation’s natural beauty.

Israel: ETA-IL and Digital Border Control

Israel is set to introduce the ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization for Israel) system by 2026. This digital travel authorization system will be mandatory for all travelers from visa-exempt countries. The application process will require travelers to submit their details at least 72 hours before departure, ensuring that all visitors meet the entry criteria before arriving in Israel.

This system will help Israel more effectively manage its borders and ensure that only eligible travelers are allowed entry. The ETA-IL will provide greater control over immigration while improving the efficiency of the border control process. By requiring travelers to apply online ahead of time, Israel will reduce congestion at entry points and streamline the processing of international visitors, creating a safer and more efficient experience for all.

In conclusion, the global travel industry is undeniably on the brink of a monumental transformation by 2026. The introduction of digital authorizations, biometric systems, and pre-travel authorization systems will reshape the way travelers experience international movement. These groundbreaking changes are set to bring a new era of security, efficiency, and convenience to the travel process.

As countries worldwide embrace digital border management, the systems that we will interact with—such as ETIAS, EES, and e-Visa platforms—will streamline entry and exit, reducing wait times and increasing security. By shifting to biometric data collection and pre-travel vetting, governments are ensuring better control over immigration and providing a seamless experience for travelers. These digital solutions will also enhance the accuracy of tracking, thereby reducing human error and improving border safety.

Moreover, the widespread adoption of biometric technologies like facial recognition and iris scanning will facilitate passport-less travel. This will significantly speed up the check-in process and reduce reliance on traditional documents, creating a smoother, more efficient journey for global travelers. As we move forward, travelers must adapt to this digital-first world, where online applications and digital authorizations are the norm.

The impact of these changes is far-reaching. Not only will they transform the day-to-day travel experience, but they will also affect the tourism economies of major countries, encouraging greater security, growth, and sustainability within the travel sector. In the coming years, the integration of digital and biometric solutions will pave the way for a future where travel is faster, safer, and more efficient than ever before. The road to 2026 promises an exciting, digital-first future for the global travel industry.