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Looking to explore Europe in the near future? If your travel dreams for 2025 include the Eiffel Tower, the Tower of London or the towering Swiss Alps, there are some big changes you need to know before you go.

It’s a daunting task to prepare for a trip to another continent and the changes may seem confusing, but happily most of the work can be accomplished online so when your travel day arrives, you’ll have no reason to fret.

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What is an ETA and why do I need it to enter the United Kingdom?

There are so many reasons to visit the United Kingdom – iconic landmarks like Big Ben or the London Eye, not to mention rugged coastlines and picturesque countryside.

If you’re planning to visit the U.K. next year, you need to know the country has implemented a new system – the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Starting Jan. 8, 2025, non-visa travellers from countries around the world will need to obtain an ETA to visit or travel through the U.K. The ETA is helpful for security services to assess visitors travelling without a visa, acting like a mini background check.

The ETA can be applied for online and is often approved within hours, although it can occasionally take up to three business days or more. The ETA costs £10 (or roughly $18.17 Canadian).

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An ETA cannot be used to stay in the U.K. for longer than six months, nor does it qualify you to do paid or unpaid work for a local company. Non-European travellers can apply for an ETA in advance as of Nov. 27 and it remains valid for up to two years.

What is ETIAS and will I need authorization to travel through Europe in 2025?

If you’re in the U.K., it’s a train ride to so many popular European destinations such as Paris, the Alps or the vineyards of Italy. However, once again, there is a major change for Canadians.  

Starting in 2025, Canadians travelling to Europe will need travel authorization from the European Travel Information Authorization System (ETIAS). According to the European Union, the ETIAS aims to address security concerns and reduce delays when crossing the borders within Europe.  

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ETIAS travel authorization is required (for non-visa travellers) for entry to 30 European countries and remains valid for up to three years or until it’s time to renew your passport, whichever is earlier. 

The list of destinations requiring ETIAS travel authorization include: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

Canadian travellers with ETIAS travel authorization can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

How much does ETIAS cost for Canadians?

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The application process for an ETIAS travel authorization requires a valid passport and the application fee is €7 (roughly $12.72 Canadian). Although some travellers, like those under the age of 18 or over 70 years old, are exempt from payment.

You can apply online and most ETIAS applications are processed within minutes, but according to the European Union’s website, it is possible your application may take up to four days. Or it could be extended up to 14 days if you’re requested to provide additional information, or 30 days if you’re invited for an interview. So you should make sure to give yourself lots of time before your trip.

What other documents do I need to enter Europe?

Your ETIAS authorization will be tied to the passport you applied with, so make sure to carry the same one when entering Europe. If you get a new passport, you will need to get a new ETIAS travel authorization.

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Speaking of your passport. Is yours ready for your next trip? It’s vital to check your travel documents and make sure they are valid well in advance of your travel date. If you need to renew your passport, Service Canada recommends starting the renewal process six months before expiry.

No matter how many times you’ve travelled to your favourite European destination, it’s important to remain up to date on the latest requirements for entering and exiting your destination country before you travel.

What countries does Canada advise not to travel to?

The world changes fast and sometimes you can’t avoid disaster or getting caught up in a situation you didn’t anticipate. Stay informed by looking at the Government of Canada’s official list of countries and their travel advisories. Check back often as safety and security conditions may change during your trip.

A few simple steps before you leave can help you avoid disappointment and expensive delays on your trip. It can also keep your dreamy destination from turning into a nightmare.

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