What Documents Do I Need to Travel to Europe in 2025?

If you’re planning an adventure in Europe in 2025, you might wonder: Do I need a visa? The answer depends on your destination and nationality. While many travelers have been used to visa-free entry, new authorization systems are being introduced in both the UK and the Schengen Zone, requiring additional steps before your trip. 

To avoid last-minute surprises at the airport, it’s important to understand the new 2025 Europe travel requirements. Whether you’re dreaming of wandering through Parisian streets, hiking in Scotland, or exploring museums in Italy, being prepared with the right documents is key to a smooth sailing travel experience. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about travel requirements to Europe in 2025, including the new ETIAS for the Schengen Zone and the ETA for the UK.

If you have your heart set on exploring Europe, Girls' Guide to the World offers unforgettable trips designed for women like you.  Take a look at some of our Europe tours for a taste of this magical continent.

Key Takeaways

1. New travel authorizations are required for Europe in 2025, with ETIAS applying to the Schengen Zone and ETA required for the UK, making it essential for travelers to plan ahead.
   
   
2. ETIAS launches in 2025 and applies to travelers from visa-exempt countries visiting the Schengen Zone, requiring a quick online application before departure.
   
   
3. The UK introduces the ETA from January 8, 2025, which is mandatory for short stays and differs from a visa, as it does not allow work or long-term stays.
   
   
4. Scotland follows the UK’s ETA system, with travelers from visa-exempt countries needing approval from January 8, 2025, and EU citizens requiring it from April 2, 2025.
   
   
5. Girls’ Guide to the World simplifies travel planning, ensuring travelers have the right authorizations for seamless trips to Europe.
   
   

Understanding New European Travel Regulations: ETIAS Explained

Travelers from countries that previously had visa-free access to the Schengen Zone will soon need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before arrival. While not a traditional visa, this online authorization will be a mandatory requirement before departure. However, ETIAS is not yet in operation, so no action is needed at this time. The European Union will provide updates on the ETIAS site several months before its official rollout.

What is ETIAS?

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is a 2025 european travel requirement for visitors from visa-exempt countries, including the U.S., Canada, and Australia, planning to visit the Schengen Zone. While it is not a visa, it serves as a pre-travel authorization designed to increase security and streamline border control. Covering 29 Schengen countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Greece, the ETIAS will be mandatory from 2025.

Travelers will need to complete a simple online application before their trip, providing basic personal and travel information. Once approved, the ETIAS remains valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, allowing stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Importantly, the ETIAS does not apply to the UK, Ireland, or non-Schengen European countries, meaning separate travel authorizations may be required for those destinations.

How to Apply for ETIAS

Before you set off on your European adventure, you’ll need to secure your ETIAS authorization. While the process is straightforward, it’s essential to apply in advance to avoid any last-minute delays. Here’s what you need to know:

• The ETIAS application is completed online.
• You’ll need a biometric passport, an email address, and a credit or debit card for the €7 fee.
• The application typically takes a few minutes to process, but some may require additional documentation.
• Once approved, ETIAS is valid for up to 3 years or until your passport expires.
• You can stay in the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  
  

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to the UK?

If you’re planning to visit England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland in 2025, you must know the documents needed for travel to UK. Starting January 8, 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries - including the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand - must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK. This applies to visits to England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland and is required for short stays of up to six months for tourism, business, or visiting family and friends.

The ETA is also not a visa, but rather a pre-travel authorization designed to enhance security and simplify border control. It differs from a Standard UK Visa (such as the Electronic Immigration Travel Authorization, or EITA) as it is not required for long-term stays, work, or study. The ETA application process is straightforward and can be completed online or via a mobile app, with most applications approved within three days. Once granted, an ETA remains valid for two years or until your passport expires, allowing multiple visits during that period. Whether you’re planning a city break in London or an adventure through Scotland’s Highlands, securing your ETA in advance will make for a hassle-free arrival.

Do I Need an ETA If I AM Transiting through the UK?

If you have a flight layover in the UK and remain airside without passing through border control, you do not need an ETA. However, if your transit requires crossing the UK border, you will still need an ETA if your nationality requires one. This exemption is temporary and may be subject to change, so it is best to keep updates on the GOV.UK website.

How to Apply for a UK ETA

Before heading to the UK, you’ll need to complete an ETA application. This is a quick and simple process, but it’s important to apply at least a month before your trip to avoid any travel disruptions. Once approved, your ETA allows multiple trips over a two-year period. Here’s what you’ll need to know:

• Applications can be completed online or via the UK ETA app.
• You’ll need a biometric passport, travel details, an email address, and a £10 fee.
• Most ETAs are processed within 3 working days.
• Once approved, an ETA is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires.
• It allows multiple visits of up to six months per trip.
  
  

Essential Documents for Traveling to the UK in 2025

Before setting off on your adventure, it’s important to consider the documents needed to travel to the UK. Border control officers may ask for proof that you meet entry requirements, so being prepared can help ensure a stress-free arrival. Whether you’re exploring London’s famous streets, hiking in the Scottish Highlands, or visiting friends in Wales, having the necessary paperwork will prevent unnecessary delays.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• A valid passport – Ensure it has at least six months of validity remaining from your planned arrival date.
• A UK ETA – If you’re from a visa-exempt country like the U.S., Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, you’ll need to apply before traveling.
• Proof of return travel – Border control may ask for an onward or return ticket.
• Proof of accommodation – A hotel reservation or an address where you’ll be staying.
• Health insurance – Not required, but highly recommended for emergencies.
  
  

Travel to Scotland: Key Documents and Requirements

If you’re questioning: what documents do I need to travel to Scotland? We have the answer. Scotland, with its rolling hills and deep-rooted history, follows the same travel rules as the rest of the UK, but there are a few key dates to keep in mind when it comes to the new ETA system.

From January 8, 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for an ETA before entering Scotland. For EU citizens, this requirement comes into effect a little later, starting on April 2, 2025. The good news is that if you’ve already obtained an ETA for travel to England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, you won’t need a separate one for Scotland- it covers the entire UK. Whether you’re planning to explore Edinburgh’s medieval streets, hike the Isle of Skye, or discover the Highlands’ rural beauty, organizing out your travel authorization ahead of time will make your arrival much easier.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Scotland?

For short visits of up to six months, most travelers won’t need a visa but will need to apply for an ETA before arrival. This applies to tourists and those visiting for business or family trips. However, if you plan to work, study, or stay in Scotland for more than six months, you may need to apply for a visa through the UK government’s immigration system. Visa requirements depend on your nationality and the purpose of your stay, so it’s best to check official guidelines well in advance. If your trip falls under tourism, securing an ETA will be enough to explore Scotland’s historic castles and charming cities. But for those planning an extended stay, making sure you have the correct visa will help avoid any unexpected complications at the border.

Conclusion: Travel Confidently with Girls’ Guide to the World

Navigating the new travel requirements to Europe in 2025 is easy when you know what to look for. With the introduction of ETIAS and ETA, it’s more important than ever to plan ahead. The good news? These authorizations are valid for multiple entries, making future trips easier once approved.

At Girls’ Guide to the World, we take the stress out of travel planning. Our concierge support team is here to help guide you when applying for the necessary travel permissions, ensuring you can focus on the excitement of your journey. Whether you’re joining us for a solo trip through Italy’s wine regions, an art-filled adventure in Paris, or an exploration of Scotland’s Highlands, we’re always happy to help.