04/15/2026
As summer travel ramps up and Europe bookings are booming, here’s a quick (and very important) update on entry requirements you’ll want to know before you go
1. UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
Traveling to the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)?
You’ll need an ETA.
Cost: about €20 (~$23 USD)
Quick & easy to complete online in just a few minutes
Note: If you’re simply connecting through a UK airport and NOT leaving, you do not need this.
2. EES (EU Entry/Exit System)
Now officially rolling out (as of April 2026), this is a biometric system (fingerprints + facial recognition) tied to your passport.
Required when entering/exiting participating European countries
No cost
Designed to be quick—but early reports show some delays as systems get fully up and running
Tip: Download the “Travel to Europe” app to help streamline the process
3. ETIAS (Coming Late 2026)
You’ve probably heard the buzz—this one’s been a long time coming!
Will be required for entry into ~30 European countries
Cost: about €20 (~$23 USD)
Valid for 3 years OR until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
Bottom line: A little prep now = smoother travels later. Europe isn’t complicated—but it is evolving.
If you’ve got a trip on the books (or dreaming one up), I’ve got you covered every step of the way.