2026 Travel Guide: Entry Requirements

for UK and European Travel

United Kingdom (UK) Entry Requirements

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): 

Started on January 8, 2025. Requires all US travelers to have an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the UK. 

Key details include:

• Application Cost: £10 (British Pounds) 
• Validity Period: Two years or until passport expiration, whichever comes first 
• Application Process: Online or via smartphone application 
• Boarding Requirement: Must show ETA to board flights to the United Kingdom 

Important Notes:

• Applies to all parts of the UK: England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland
• Required for tourism, business, and short trips
• Not needed for transit if you do not go through border control

European Union (Schengen Area) Entry Requirements

Entry/Exit System (EES) 

Launched on October 12, 2025, with full implementation by April 10, 2026.

Key details include:

• Biometric Collection Fingerprints, facial image, and passport details will be digitally recorded 
• Border Tracking Electronic tracking of entries and exits for all 29 participating countries 
• Individual Documentation Each traveler must have their own passport (no group documents) 

European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)

Planned for late 2026, with the following key details:

ETIAS Requirement Specifics

• Countries Covered: 30 European countries including most Schengen Area nations 
• Application Cost: €7 (Euros) 
• Validity Period: Three years or until passport expiration 
• Stay Duration Up to 90 days within any 180 day period 

Participating ETIAS Countries:

Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Key Recommendations for Travelers

1. Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the EU.
2. Apply Early: For ETIAS, apply at least one month before travel, as some applications may require additional documentation.
3. Check Individual Requirements: Each traveler needs their own documentation, especially for school or group trips.
4. Stay Informed: Continue monitoring official government websites for the most up to date information.
5. Plan your flights to include extra time for your first entry into the Schengen states to complete the EES biometric requirements.
6. Remember: If your passport expires, you will need to re-apply both for the UK and for Europe.

Important Dates to Remember

• January 8, 2025: UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) begins
• October 12, 2025: EU Entry/Exit System (EES) initial rollout
• April 10, 2026: Full implementation of EES
• Late 2026: Anticipated ETIAS system launch

Disclaimer

This is the most current information as of 14 Jan 2026. Entry requirements can change rapidly. Always verify the most current information with official government sources before traveling.