From digital border controls to expanded tourist taxes and electronic travel authorizations, several significant changes are set to reshape the experience of entering and moving around the continent.

Digital border systems

The EU is expected to roll out its new Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025, replacing manual passport stamping with facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. This automated system will register every arrival and departure, helping authorities track length of stay and identify visa overstays more accurately.

Another major change expected in 2026 is the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), similar to the US ESTA. Citizens of 60 visa-exempt countries (including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand) must apply online before arrival. ETIAS is expected to launch in October 2026 and will cost EU€7. Valid for three years (unless your passport expires first), it allows multiple short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

UK entry authorization

The United Kingdom introduced its own Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in January 2025. Visitors from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, Canada and Australia, will need to apply online before departure. The GB£16 (around US$21) authorization is valid for two years (unless your passport expires first) and permits stays of up to six months. It was extended to EU citizens in April 2025. Unlike a visa, the ETA does not permit employment. The ETA is digitally linked to the traveler’s passport, enabling airlines to verify eligibility at check-in and easing border control processing.

Schengen expansion

Bulgaria and Romania formally joined the Schengen Zone in January 2025, removing border checks with other Schengen countries. This allows easier cross-border movement. Travel across Eastern Europe will become more seamless, with fewer delays and more efficient transport routes.

Tourist tax

Several European destinations are increasing or introducing new visitor charges in 2025 to help manage tourism and support infrastructure. 

In Venice, a variable entry fee of up to EU€10 will apply from April for day-trippers, with prices fluctuating based on demand, so book early. Greece is raising its daily tourist tax to between EU€2 and EU€8, depending on the season and type of accommodation. The Portuguese archipelago of Madeira now charges EU€3 per person to access hiking trails to help maintain them and protect nature areas, and in mainland Portugal, the historic city of Évora plans to introduce its own tourist tax of EU€1.50 per guest per night to help minimize the impacts of overtourism and fund heritage restoration.

Travel advice

With multiple changes taking place across Europe, travelers are encouraged to check official tourism websites and government portals for the most current entry requirements, tax policies and travel advisories.