EU travel changes 2025 « Euro Weekly News

As we approach 2025, the European Union (EU) is gearing up for several transformative changes that will affect travel, residency, and tourism.

Here’s a breakdown of the most significant updates, specifically highlighted to help keep expats in the know.

Border controls: Entry/Exit systems and ETIAS to launch in 2025

Two advanced border control systems – the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) – are set to launch in 2025 after delays.

The EES, replacing manual passport stamping, will record all entries and exits of non-EU nationals and enhance border security. Registration will occur automatically at external EU borders.

Meanwhile, ETIAS will require visa-exempt visitors from over 60 countries to apply for travel authorisation. Around 1.4 billion people will need this document to enter the Schengen Area.

While the exact dates are yet to be announced, the EES is expected to go live first, followed by ETIAS a few months later.

Bulgaria and Romania to join Schengen

From January 1, 2025, Bulgaria and Romania will become full Schengen members. This long-anticipated change will remove internal border controls, allowing seamless travel for residents and visitors.

Changes to Golden Visa schemes

Greece is expanding its Golden Visa to include a startup investment pathway. Foreigners can qualify by investing at least €250,000 in approved startups, maintaining a workforce for five years, and meeting other criteria. Pending parliamentary approval, this scheme is expected to start in early 2025.

On the contrary, Spain plans to eliminate Golden Visas based on property investment. While the proposal has faced legislative hurdles, the outcome remains uncertain.

Tourist taxes to rise in 2025

Several EU countries will introduce or increase tourist taxes in 2025:

• Madeira, Portugal: Expanding its €3 hiking fee to all 30 trails for tourists aged 12 and above. Violations will incur a €50 penalty.
• Évora, Portugal: Introducing a tourist tax to fund waste management and heritage preservation.
• Venice, Italy: Doubling its €5 tax for last-minute visitors to €10 on select days starting April 2025.
• Greece: Raising daily hotel taxes from €0.5 to €2 and cruise ship levies from €1.5 to €8 during peak seasons.

Stricter language requirements for French residency permits

From 2025, France will require stricter language proficiency levels for residence permits. Applicants for multi-year permits must demonstrate A2-level French, while those seeking ten-year permits need B1-level proficiency. Specific implementation dates are yet to be confirmed.

New UK entry requirements for EU citizens

From April 2, 2025, EU nationals travelling to the UK visa-free will need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), costing €11. Applications open from March 5, 2025, and approved ETAs will be valid for two years, allowing multiple 60-day visits.

These EU updates are designed to streamline border management and bolster security. Expats in the EU should stay informed to ensure compliance with new regulations and make the most of evolving opportunities.

For more information, visit the respective government and EU websites.