The new year brings some change for travel to Europe and the UK.
Changes will include the implementation of electronic travel authorisation (ETA) systems by the UK and the EU – for visa-exempt nations.
This will also be accompanied by increases in taxes as well as fuel charges.
EUROPE IMPLEMENTS ETIAS
The European Union (EU) will introduce ETIAS, a system that will require citizens of visa-exempt countries, to obtain an electronic authorisation before travelling to the Schengen Area.
Euronews reports that ETIAS will cost €7 and will be valid for three years or until the passport expires.
This system aims to reinforce border security and facilitate the entry process into member countries.
UK IMPLEMENTS ETA
From 2 April 2025, the United Kingdom will implement an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for citizens of visa-exempt countries.
Travellers must apply for an ETA online, providing personal and biometric details, and also pay a fee of £10.
This authorisation will be valid for two years and will allow multiple entries into the country, for stays of up to six months.
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CHANGES TO FEES AND TAXES
Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and the shift to achieving net-zero carbon emissions for flight operations is a requirement for most airlines.
The European Union requires airline operators to use a two percent SAF blend for flights (from 2025).
A number of airlines have therefore increased fares or started levying additional fees to factor in the increased fuel cost.
The UK will also increase Air Passenger Tax (APD) from April 2025. This tax applies to flights departing from the UK.
The amount payable varies, depending on distance and class of travel. This increase will mainly affect long-distance flights, making flights to destinations outside Europe more expensive.
In light of these changes, travel to Europe and the UK will change slightly for many travellers.
