With the new regulations, systems, and requirements everywhere in the world, the global travel industry is undergoing a rapid transformation as we approach 2025. These changes aim to make security more manageable, shorten processes, and improve people’s travel experience.
Going into 2025, this comprehensive guide will look at all the significant developments travelers need to be aware of on their next travels.
European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)
ETIAS is one of the most significant changes for anyone traveling to Europe from abroad.
What is ETIAS? The European Union’s (EU) new requirement applies to all citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling to the EU for a short length of stay time. The visa aims to enhance security and manage the migration perspective by screening travelers before entering the Schengen area.
Implementation Timeline ETIAS has not been operating for a long time. No applications have been collected at this point, and the system is to be implemented in 2025.
The launch of ETIAS depends on deploying the Entry/Exit System (EES), an automated IT system designed for registering incoming and returning non-EU citizens.
Key Points for Travelers:
The United States, Canada, and Australia are just a few of the over 60 visa-exempt countries for whom ETIAS must authorize travel. The passport holder will be authorized for entry multiple times within three years, or the passport will expire, whichever comes earlier. The ETIAS approval must be issued online and covered by a fee; travelers will need it to travel. Its primary purpose is to detect any security risk or irregular migratory flows in visa-exempt visitors to the EU.
REAL ID Implementation in the United States
In 2025, the REAL ID Act will bring a major change for domestic travel within the United States.
Key Updates
Enforcement Date: On Tuesday, DHS extended the full enforcement date of the REAL ID Act to May 7, 2025.
Requirements for Travelers: On May 7, 2025, all U.S. travelers older than 18 will need a driver’s license documenting REAL ID or an equivalent form of identification to travel on domestic flights and to access federal buildings.
Documentation Needed: REAL ID needs full legal name, date of birth, social security number, and two documents with proof of address
Impact on Travelers: Starting at the enforcement date, those who do not have a REAL ID-compliant license or the alternative approved form of identification allowed by the enforcement date will be denied access through security checkpoints at airports.
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Program of UK
Many international travelers will be affected as the United Kingdom introduces its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) program.
Overview and Eligibility
The UK’s ETA allows for some travelers to enter or transit through the UK, requiring digital permission.
Starting January 8, 2025, if you travel from the USA, Canada, Australia or another country and visit for less than the standard period (6 months), you’ll need an ETA entry visa.
From April 2, 2025, European citizens and other visa-exempt travelers will also need an ETA.
Application Process
You can apply through the UK ETA app or via the UK government’s website.
Applicants must supply their passport details and a valid photo and answer suitability questions.
£10 fees apply, and the decisions are made in three working days.
Validity and Usage
An ETA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever occurs first. It provides you with many entries into the UK.
The UK’s visa policy means you cannot spend more than six months within the home country, work for a UK company, claim public funds, or marry.
Other Travel Changes and Requirements
New Airline Routes and new Airport Developments
Delta Air Lines and United Airlines are adding routes across the Atlantic, with Delta operating 700 flights per week to 33 European destinations and United offering 760 weekly flights.
A new airport in Nuuk, Greenland, will open in June 2025 and be the first to offer direct flights from the U.S.
Changes in Taxes and Fees
The UK government will increase the Air Passenger Duty (APD) for tickets on premium seats from 1 April 2025.
On January 1, 2025, Denmark will implement a new passenger tax on flights.
U.S. Hotel Fee Transparency.
As a final rule, the Federal Trade Commission requires U.S. hotels, vacation rentals, and ticketed live events to disclose fees when advertising prices start next year.
Air Traveler Protection Regulations are applicable for all US-based airlines other than charter airlines.
Changes to air traveler protection regulations in recent years have improved passenger rights and more effectively compensated passengers for delays or cancellations.
Key Changes
Automatic Refunds: According to federal regulations, airlines are now required (by October 28, 2024) to automatically offer refunds for flights cancelled or delayed by at least three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.
Refunds for Ancillary Services: If not as promised, passengers are due a refund for additional services provided.
Tarmac Delay Protections: After two hours of a tarmac delay, airlines must provide food and water, and passengers are allowed to disembark after three hours for domestic flights and four hours for international flights.
Family Seating and Fee Transparency: If a child is under 14, airlines are banned from charging extra to ensure families sit together — and all fees must be disclosed beforehand when the ticket is purchased.
Effect on Tourism and Worldwide Travel
Despite these new requirements, the travel and tourism sector shows resilience and potential for growth:
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) believes the global economic contribution from the travel and tourism sector will reach $11.1 trillion and support nearly 348 million jobs by 2024.
In January-September 2024, international arrivals reached 98% of 2019, and most international tourism receipts exceeded their pre-pandemic levels.
As of January 2024, 93% of travelers have plans to travel within the next six months.
Entry points, emerging markets such as India, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Europe, are now sources of large amounts of outbound tourism, partly from offsetting declines in traditional markets. New Travel Requirements: Preparing. To effectively prepare for these changes, travelers should be informed about the specific requirements for their destinations. Make sure to apply for necessary authorizations (such as ETIAS or UK ETA) before the trip dates come closer. Make sure that they have accurate identification that’s REAL ID compliant if they’re going to be doing domestic U.S. travel. Know their rights regarding flight delays, cancellations and refunds. Account for the budget for the potential increase in travel costs with new taxes and fees. Travelers can stay informed through these new requirements and continue to enjoy the international travel experiences of 2025 (and along with it) planning.