New travel requirements taking effect in 2025

Now that we have officially entered 2025, significant changes are coming up for those traveling both within the United States and internationally. From domestic flights requiring updated identification to new entry protocols for Europe and the UK, staying informed will be essential to ensure a smooth travel journey.

REAL ID for US Flights

Americans should make sure their identification is up to date sooner than later this winter, because starting May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will enforce the use of REAL ID at airports and some federal facilities.

U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant in order to board domestic flights. To obtain a REAL ID, individuals must visit their state’s driver’s licensing agency and provide documentation verifying their full legal name, date of birth, social security number, proof of address and lawful status. 

REAL IDs are identifiable by a special seal, varying slightly by state, on the upper-right corner of the card. 

In lieu of a REAL ID, alternative TSA-approved forms of identification – such as passports, trusted traveler program cards (e.g., Global Entry, NE-XUS, SENTRI) or Department of Defense IDs- will also be accepted. 

Entering the UK with ETA

The expansion of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) program will impact U.S. and European travelers headed to the United Kingdom.

Starting Jan. 8, 2025, ETA registration will be required by inbound travelers so that UK authorities can screen visitors before arrival, which was modeled after the U.S.’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) system in an effort to reduce potential security risks and make border entry more efficient.

The ETA, which costs approximately $13, is not a visa and does not replace any existing visa requirements.

Americans traveling to the U.K. on or after Jan. 8 can apply through the UK government’s official website. 

The ETA is valid for multiple entries into the UK through a two-year period.

ETIAS entry and exit requirements

Although not yet operational, the European Union’s European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which has been postponed multiple times, is expected to take effect in May 2025.

U.S. passport holders who previously traveled to Europe without a visa will now need to apply for authorization through the ETIAS platform before visiting.

Once granted ETIAS travel authorization, travelers will be able to enter participating countries multiple times for short-term stays – usually up to 90 days – over a 180-day period. The ETIAS is valid for up to three years, but if your passport expires, a new ETIAS travel authorization will be required.