Travel Changes Across Europe in 2025: Border Checks, Taxes, and New Regulations

Published on December 7, 2025

Starting in 2025, Europe will have new rules in place when it comes to traveling, which could impact your travel plans. These new rules will include border control measures, new taxes for tourists, behavioral changes expected from tourists, and more. If you’re planning to travel to Europe anytime soon, being aware of these new rules will be beneficial.

New Border Controls Across Europe

In 2025, Europe has tightened its border controls. The most significant change is the full implementation of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES), which started its rollout in October 2025. By 2026, this system will be operational across the Schengen Area, which includes most EU countries, as well as Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Under the new system, non-EU citizens entering these areas will need to provide biometric data such as fingerprints, passport details, and facial images instead of traditional passport stamps. This will help identify visa overstayers and improve security across European borders.

Although the system is being phased in slowly, travelers can expect delays, especially as countries iron out technical issues. A major change involves digitalizing border checks to verify identities more accurately, and while some teething problems remain, the system will eventually streamline border crossings.

Delay in ETIAS Rollout

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) was originally set to launch alongside the new border system in 2025, but it has now been delayed until late 2026. ETIAS will affect visa-exempt travelers from 60 countries, who will need to apply for an online authorization before entering the Schengen Area. The application, which costs €20, will be valid for three years and allow stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

In addition to ETIAS, the UK has introduced its own travel permit. The UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which was soft-launched in 2023, will become mandatory in February 2026. Tourists from 85 countries, who previously did not require a visa, will need to apply for this digital permit. This application costs £16 (€18.20) and allows stays of up to six months.

Rising Travel Costs and Taxes

Traveling to Europe in 2025 comes with a price tag. Not only are visa and permit fees higher, but several destinations have introduced tourist taxes to help fund local infrastructure. Countries such as Iceland, Spain, Norway, and the UK have started charging nightly taxes to visitors, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. For example, travelers in Venice, Italy, will continue paying the day-tripper fee, a tax aimed at reducing overcrowding.

Accommodation costs are also on the rise, especially due to new regulations targeting short-term rentals. Cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Amsterdam have implemented stricter rules on platforms like Airbnb, limiting the availability of affordable rentals. These regulations aim to prevent the exploitation of housing markets and ensure that locals aren’t priced out of their own neighborhoods.

Ski Resorts and Tourist Infrastructure

Winter sports enthusiasts, in particular, will feel the impact of these rising costs. Ski passes in Switzerland, Austria, and Italy have increased by up to 40% compared to previous years due to soaring energy costs and maintenance fees. Many ski resorts have passed these inflated costs onto visitors, making winter holidays more expensive.

Behavior Crackdowns for Tourists

In 2025, several European destinations have also introduced measures to curb bad tourist behavior. These rules aim to protect local communities and preserve the environment. Visitors to major attractions and cities are now expected to adhere to stricter behavior guidelines. This includes rules on noise levels, littering, and respecting local customs and traditions. Countries like Greece and Spain have implemented fines for tourists who engage in disruptive behavior, aiming to create a more respectful and sustainable travel experience.

What Travelers Need to Know

1. Prepare for biometric border checks: If you’re traveling to the Schengen Area, ensure your biometric data is ready for submission when crossing the border. Expect delays as the system is still being implemented.
2. Apply for ETIAS or ETA: If you’re from a visa-exempt country, make sure to apply for the necessary travel authorizations before your trip. The ETIAS will apply to most travelers entering the Schengen Area, while the ETA will apply to travelers visiting the UK.
3. Expect higher costs: Tourist taxes are now commonplace in many European countries, and accommodation prices are rising due to new rental regulations. Budget accordingly, especially in cities that have implemented these taxes.
4. Respect local rules: Be aware of new behavior regulations in popular tourist destinations. Avoid disruptions to local communities and be mindful of environmental conservation efforts.
5. Higher costs for winter sports: If you plan to visit ski resorts, be prepared for significantly higher prices for ski passes and resort services.

Conclusion

In 2025, European travel is much different than before due to changes in border control, new tourist fees, behavioral regulations, and new rules in the EU Entry/Exit system and ETIAS travel requirements. These changes mean bordering countries will be more secure and higher in travel technology. Fortunately, the focus on expensive travel and behavioral regulations helps steer tourism in a positive direction. Increasing travel costs are meant to deter careless travelers and overpriced travel. The new regulations need to be factored into a traveler’s itinerary in order to travel Europe’s changing landscape responsibly.