Ensuring you meet the latest travel requirements is essential for a smooth and stress-free journey to Europe (and the UK). The Blue Walk requires all participants to carry emergency medical insurance that safeguards their health and well-being throughout our programs.
In addition to insurance, travelers must comply with jurisdictional requirements for crossing borders. This includes verifying that your passport meets Schengen validity rules, registering with the EU’s new biometric Entry/Exit System (EES), and, if applicable, applying for the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). These measures are designed to streamline border crossings and enhance security.
Read on for detailed guidance on passport regulations, the EES rollout, and how to secure your UK ETA before you travel.
Passport Requirements
If you’re traveling to one of our vacation destinations from outside the European Union (EU), make sure your passport was issued within the last ten years. Also, it must remain valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure to meet Schengen entry rules. For more information please see the official EU site.
New Mandatory Requirements for Travel
As travel protocols evolve to balance security with smoother passenger flows, two new pre-travel requirements are being introduced: the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) and the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Both aim to strengthen border management by automating identity checks and ensuring advance clearance for non-visa nationals.
EES Through Europe
The European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) will start a phased rollout on 12 October 2025. Under the EES, non-EU travellers will have their biometric data and travel details recorded electronically instead of passport stamps. European countries using the EES will introduce the system gradually at their external borders with the intent of having complete coverage by April 2026.
Please review the EES website to see if any action is required prior to your departure. Do not wait until the last minute to do this in case there are any complications.
Find available requirements and information at the EES Website.
ETA Through the UK
From April 2, 2025, the UK’s ETA will require visa-exempt visitors—including EU citizens—to apply online before departure; it costs £10, remains valid for two years, and permits multiple trips.
You must register for an ETA if your travel includes a layover (spending the night) in the UK. The easiest way of doing this is through the ETA app.
For more information, please see the ETA website.