Your Essential ETIAS Travel Guide: Step-by-Step Tips to Navigate Europe’s New Border and Entry Rules

Published on December 12, 2025

Europe is preparing for a major shift in the way international travellers enter its borders. New systems are being introduced to strengthen security and modernise border checks. These measures are designed to make travel safer and more predictable. For tourists, understanding these changes early will help ensure smoother journeys.

Europe’s New Digital Border System

Two major systems are being introduced. The first is the Entry/Exit System, known as EES. It replaces the traditional passport stamping process. Instead, it records when non-EU visitors enter and leave the region. It also stores basic biometric information collected during the first entry, such as fingerprints and a facial image.

The second system is the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, known as ETIAS. This will be a mandatory pre-travel authorisation for travellers who do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Area. Many nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and many Asian and Latin American countries, will fall under ETIAS requirements once it becomes active.

When Travellers Will Need These Systems

EES is already in the implementation stage. It removes the need for manual passport stamps and relies on digital border records. Travellers should expect fingerprint scans and a quick facial image capture during their first entry after EES is fully active.

ETIAS is expected to begin in late 2026. Once launched, visa-exempt visitors must secure ETIAS approval before boarding a flight, vessel, or bus heading to the Schengen Area. The approval will be electronically linked to the traveller’s passport.

Who Must Apply for ETIAS

Travellers who currently enter Europe without a visa will need ETIAS. The authorisation applies to short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. It does not serve as a work permit, residency document, or long-term visa.

Travellers with dual nationality that includes an EU country should use their EU passport. This avoids the need for ETIAS. Those who hold a passport from a country that already requires a visa for European travel will continue to use the existing visa process.

How to Prepare for ETIAS Before Your Trip

The application process is simple and fully digital. Travellers will fill out a short form that asks for passport details, personal information, and basic travel plans. Most applications are expected to receive quick responses.

To minimise delays, travellers should follow these key steps:

1. Ensure the passport is valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date from Europe.
2. Keep the passport information consistent with the application.
3. Carry evidence of accommodation, financial capacity, and a return or onward ticket, as border officials may request them.
4. Use only official government portals when applying to avoid third-party service fees or potential scams.

Once approved, ETIAS will remain valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

What to Expect at European Borders After EES

The Entry/Exit System changes the way border control works at airports, land crossings, and seaports. During the first visit, travellers will provide a facial image and fingerprints. The process is designed to be quick, and future entries should be faster because the system will match the traveller’s existing biometrics.

Border officers will continue to verify the purpose and conditions of stay. Travellers may still be asked to explain accommodation plans, financial means, or the intent behind their visit. EES and ETIAS add modernisation but do not replace the basic entry rules.

Planning Ahead for Stress-Free Travel

Tourists should now treat ETIAS as an essential part of their Europe planning. Applying well in advance is wise, especially before purchasing non-refundable tickets. Airlines and carriers will be required to check ETIAS status before allowing travellers to board. Travellers without approval may be denied boarding.

The new systems aim to reduce irregular entry, improve border security, and streamline travel in the long term. While the transition introduces extra steps, it also promises faster processing, fewer queues, and more efficient border experiences over time.

Travel Tip for Global Visitors

The best approach is simple: stay informed. Check official government travel pages of both your home country and the European Union. Follow updates from national immigration authorities, especially before large trips or high-season travel. With the right preparation, ETIAS and EES should not complicate your journey. Instead, they will help make Europe a safer and more organised travel destination.