For most travelers from the United States, planning a vacation in Europe is usually pretty seamless. You simply ensure your passport is valid and head to the airport without any visa or pre-clearance requirements. However, the travel landscape is constantly evolving, with new travel authorization systems and rule changes on the horizon.
In the coming months, various changes will affect travelers, including new border rules, visitor fees, booking systems, and even a relaxation of the rules around liquids in hand baggage.
To ensure your trip gets off to a flying start, here are the major changes that should be on your radar and how you can prepare before you go.
1. Fingerprint Checks for Travel to Europe Starting in 2024
A new EU entry-exit system (EES), initially scheduled for last year, will now be launched in October 2024. This system will require most non-EU nationals, including British and American travelers, to submit biometric data such as fingerprints and facial scans upon entering 25 EU countries and the four non-EU states that compose the Schengen zone (Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland).
Although it won’t significantly alter the visiting experience, be prepared for potentially longer wait times at borders once the system goes live on October 6. Some countries, including Germany and Austria, are concerned that wait times could even double compared to the current situation.
2. New Travel Charges to Enter Europe
While it won’t break the bank, travelers should be aware of upcoming fees. Once the EES is operational, the EU will implement the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This visa-waiver program will target non-EU citizens from 60 countries aged between 18 and 70. Similar to the US ESTA scheme, it will require a small fee of €7 ($7.25) for ETIAS authorization, which allows multiple visits over three years. Approval is expected to be granted almost immediately for applicants.
Although ETIAS isn’t necessary for entry into every EU country, it is mandatory for those traveling within the Schengen Area. This system is set to launch in early 2025.
3. Lift on Liquids Ban at Some Airports
Next year, more airports will enable passengers to carry liquids through security in their bags. Cities like New York, Amsterdam, and London have implemented measures that eliminate the need for travelers to remove liquids and laptops from their bags during security checks. By mid-2024, the UK government will require all its airports to follow suit.
Other airports, including those in Spain and Ireland, are set to adopt similar technology, ensuring travelers have a smoother experience. This initiative allows passengers to breeze through security without having to dispose of their water bottles or remove bulkier items if they take advantage of services such as TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry.
4. Visa Requirement for Travel to Brazil
Beginning January 10, 2024, visitors from the United States, Canada, and Australia will require an e-visa to enter Brazil for vacation purposes. Brazil had previously waived visa requirements for Americans, Canadians, and Australians on short-term stays up to 90 days, but this policy will change with the introduction of the e-visa.
While the e-visa costs $80.90 per application, it grants multiple entries valid for ten years (five years for Canadian or Australian nationals). Processing time is expected to take around five working days, and the entire process can conveniently be completed online.
5. Registration Required for Visiting Venice
Venice is introducing a new ticketing system as part of its congestion-management plans. Travelers will need to register their visits online through a new platform launching on January 16. Failing to register could result in fines of approximately €400, which could detract from your holiday enjoyment.
The registration process is straightforward; once completed, travelers will receive a QR code to be scanned at access points throughout the city. Keep this QR code accessible, as officials may conduct random checks.
Moreover, if you plan only a brief visit to Venice, remember that an entry fee will apply when registering online. This fee targets those entering and leaving the city on the same day and aims to better manage visitor flow.
