What You Need for Travel in 2025
You may have seen a lot of activity online about various new travel requirements to the UK and Europe, as well as buzz around the REAL ID going into effect this year. Here’s what you need to know:
ETA
What is it? The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) acts as a pre-clearance for travel in the UK, Northern Ireland, and British Overseas Territories. It’s valid for 2 years or the remaining period of your passport, whichever is shorter.
Who needs it? All U.S. citizens traveling to the United Kingdom for short visits, tourism, or business, including those just passing through UK airports, will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
When? Effective January 8th, 2025.
How? Apply online here. It will take up to 3 business days to process and costs about $13.
Update: The ETA is no longer needed for those just traveling through UK airports (as of January 17).
ETIAS
Not currently in operation and no applications are being collected at this time. It’s due to start 6 months after EES (Entry/Exit System) begins, due to start sometime in 2025.
What is it? An online pre-travel authorization that citizens from visa-exempt countries need to apply for before visiting the Schengen Area in Europe, allowing for a security screening process before they arrive at the border; it's essentially a digital check to verify if a traveler poses any potential risks before they enter the EU.
Who needs it? Travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the US, are required to have a travel authorization to enter most European countries.
When? Sometime in 2025, though no specific date has been announced yet.
How? To apply, you will need a valid passport which does not expire in less than three months. There is a fee of 7 EUR to apply. Applications under 18 or over 70 years of age do not have to pay the fee.
REAL ID
What is it? A drivers license or ID card that meets requirements set by the REAL ID Act of 2005. REAL IDs are required to board domestic flights (or visit certain federal facilities) starting May 7, 2025.
Who needs it? All US travelers who want to board domestic flights.
When? May 7, 2025
How? Check if your driver’s license or ID as a start (and/or flag) or says Enhanced. Many licenses issued after a certain date are REAL ID compliant (Georgia started issuing them in 2012).
Where? You can get a REAL ID at your DMV, replacing an outdated license or ID card.
International Drivers Permit
What is it? An IDP allows you to drive legally in countries that require one. If the country you are visiting requires an IDP, you will carry it along with your US Driver’s license.
Who needs it? If you are planning to rent a car or drive while overseas, use the US State Department’s site to see if the country you are visiting requires an IDP.
When? IDPs may not be issued more than 6 months in advance of desired effective date.
How? You can apply online, in person or by mail through AAA. There’s a $20 fee to apply. You will also need 2 passport pictures for your application.
Where? Check the State Department site to confirm if an IDP is required in your intended destination.
Do you really need it? I’ve brought an IDP with me on past trips to countries that require it - sometimes you will be asked for it, but you may never need to show it to anyone. Car rental companies may require you to show your IDP to rent a car. However, in the event that you are asked to show your IDP, you don’t want to be found without one!
Passport Reminder!
Make sure you have at least 6 months left on your passport before it expires when traveling. Many destinations will not let you in without the 6-month buffer, so best to be safe and not get turned away!
Now that you know what you need, it’s time to work with us to plan your next incredible trip (and we’ll make sure you have everything you need)!