New requirements for travel around the world in 2025

03-01-25

The year 2025 brings with it important changes in entry formalities for various destinations around the world. The following are the most relevant changes that travelers should take into account to plan their trips and avoid border mishaps.

January 1, 2025: Israel implements ETA-IL

Israel will implement the Electronic Travel Authorization, known as ETA-IL, as of January 1, 2025. This system will require citizens of 99 visa-exempt countries to obtain an electronic authorization prior to arrival. Applications will have to be made online several days in advance, allowing Israeli authorities to pre-screen visitors and streamline entry procedures.

January 1, 2025: new passport requirement for Tunisia

As of this date, Tunisia will require all visitors, including European nationals, to present a passport valid for at least three months to enter the country. This puts an end to the possibility for EU citizens to travel to Tunisia on organized tourist trips using only their national identity card.

January 1, 2025: Thailand extends its e-Visa System

Thailand will extend access to its electronic visa (e-Visa) system globally from January 1, 2025. This measure will allow travelers of all eligible nationalities to apply for their visa online, simplifying administrative procedures and reducing waiting times. With this initiative, Thailand seeks to position itself as an even more attractive destination on the international tourism scene.

January 1, 2025: Cambodia reduces e-Visa fees

Aiming to boost tourism, Cambodia has announced a reduction in its electronic visa (e-Visa) fees as of January 1, 2025. The cost of the tourist e-Visa will decrease from $36 to $30, while the business e-Visa will drop from $42 to $35. This initiative seeks to revitalize the tourism sector and attract international professionals and investors.

January 8, 2025: UK introduces ETA for non-European nationals

The United Kingdom will implement its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) from January 8, 2025 for non-European nationals from visa-exempt countries. This system aims to strengthen border control and simplify entry procedures for foreign visitors.

April 2, 2025: ETA mandatory for EU nationals traveling to the UK

From April 2, 2025, EU citizens will be required to obtain an ETA to enter the UK. The application will be available online from March 5, 2025 and will cost £10 (approximately €12). The ETA will be valid for two years or until the expiration of the passport, allowing multiple entries with maximum stays of six months. 

End of 2025: ETIAS implementation in the European Union

The European Union plans to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) by the end of 2025. This system will require citizens of visa-exempt countries, including U.S. citizens, to obtain an online authorization before traveling to the Schengen area. The ETIAS will cost 7 euros and will be valid for three years or until the expiration of the passport. 

End of 2025: Implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) in the EU.

Along with ETIAS, the European Union will implement the Entry/Exit System (EES) by the end of 2025. This digital system will replace stamps in passports with biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial scans, to record the entry and exit of travelers into and out of the Schengen area. The aim is to improve security and streamline border crossings in the future. 

Increase in tourist taxes in European cities

An increase in tourist taxes is expected in several European cities during 2025. Amsterdam has raised its tourist tax to 12.5% for hotel stays, making it the highest in Europe. Barcelona and Venice are also planning rate increases, which will increase costs for travelers in these popular destinations. 

Restrictions for travelers who have visited Cuba

Citizens who have visited Cuba after January 2021 will not be able to apply for an ESTA to enter the United States. Instead, they must apply for a more expensive and complex tourist visa, which requires an interview in the applicant's home capital and costs approximately $150. 

Recommendations for Travelers in 2025

In view of these changes, travelers are advised to:

• Plan ahead: apply for the necessary electronic authorizations and visas well in advance to avoid delays.

• Verify passport validity

Prepare for safe travel

These changes in travel requirements highlight the importance of staying informed and up-to-date on international regulations. Planning ahead and complying with the new requirements will ensure a smooth and seamless travel experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy their destinations.

Adapting to the future of tourism

With the implementation of electronic systems and advanced security measures, global tourism is evolving toward greater digitization. These innovations not only optimize entry processes, but also enhance security worldwide, setting a new standard for international mobility..