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Traveling from the UK to Europe is becoming more complex after Brexit. Several new rules will affect how British tourists enter and move around the EU. These include shorter stays, digital border checks, and fees for visiting certain cities. With changes arriving between 2024 and 2026, travelers must plan ahead to avoid surprises.
Shorter Stays and Passport Checks
UK passport holders can now only stay in the Schengen Area for 90 days in any 180-day period. Passports are stamped when entering and exiting. Soon, stamping will be replaced by the new Entry/Exit System (EES), starting in October 2025. This system will scan fingerprints and facial images to record travel details electronically.
ETIAS Visa Waiver Coming in 2026
By late 2026, UK travelers must also apply for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). This visa waiver will cost €7 and is needed before traveling to any of the 30 EU countries. It applies to most travelers except children under 18 and adults over 70.
Airport Security and E-Gate Access
Airport rules are also changing. By June 2025, UK airports like Heathrow and Gatwick aim to install new CT scanners, allowing liquids and laptops to remain in hand luggage. However, until then, the 100ml liquid rule remains in place.
UK travelers may use more e-gates in Europe from August 2025, but full access will only come after the EES is fully in place. Until then, passport stamping and extra checks could cause delays.
New Taxes and Travel Fees
Venice has brought back a day trip fee starting April 2025. Visitors not staying overnight must pay €5 or €10 during peak hours. Overnight guests are exempt but must register online. Tour companies need to inform visitors about this change.
Catalonia is planning to raise its tourist tax from €11 to €15 per day starting no earlier than October 2025. This helps manage tourism in places like Barcelona.
Protests and Tourist Restrictions
Southern Europe is also seeing protests against mass tourism. On June 15, 2025, large protests are expected in many cities. Spain is also tightening rules. Travelers must give personal details when booking hotels or renting cars, and new smoking bans are planned for bar terraces. France will ban smoking at public spots like beaches and parks starting July 1, 2025.
Pet Travel and Rental Laws
Pet owners must follow strict rules to bring pets to the EU. Pets need to be microchipped, vaccinated for rabies, and treated for tapeworms. They also need an EU Animal Health Certificate. The UK is trying to rejoin the EU pet passport scheme.
Spain will also require short-term rental homes to register from July 1, 2025. This helps control the booming holiday rental market.
Stay Informed for Smoother Travel
These changes mean travelers must prepare early. The travel industry must support customers through updates, new bookings, and help with documents like ETIAS. While these rules may cause delays at first, they aim to make travel safer and more organized in the long run. Europe remains a top destination, and staying informed is the best way to enjoy your trip smoothly.
