New travel rules require £17 fee for UK tourists

New EU regulations will require UK tourists to pay a fee for entry to 30 countries.

EU updates travel rules imposing fee for UK tourists

The European Union has revealed new regulations affecting UK tourists traveling to Europe. Under the new rules, travelers will need an ETIAS visa-waiver costing around £17 to enter 30 countries. The ETIAS will launch between October and December 2026, and will be valid for three years or until the passport expires. Additionally, the Entry/Exit System (EES) is set to launch on October 12, 2025, collecting biometric data at borders to enhance security and monitor travel durations. This phased implementation means not all travelers will have their data collected initially.

These new regulations are likely to significantly impact UK travelers, emphasizing changing relationships between the UK and Europe post-Brexit. The fee increase for the ETIAS raises concerns about accessibility for families and young travelers. The gradual rollout of the EES illustrates a cautious approach by the EU to enhance security while balancing the travel experience. As we look toward 2026, travelers must prepare for an evolving landscape, where the cost and process of entering Europe will be more complex than in the past.

Highlights

The new rules are a reminder of the changing nature of travel between the UK and EU.