Travel in 2025: What’s Changing and How to Stay Prepared
As global travel continues to rebound, 2025 is proving to be a year of transformation. New visa protocols, digital entry requirements, and sustainability-linked travel policies are becoming the new normal. These changes affect not only where we can go but also how we prepare for international travel.
For travellers who value seamless experiences and expert guidance, staying ahead of these shifts is essential. At Loving Life Loving, we stay fully informed so that you can travel with clarity and confidence.
What’s New in 2025
ETIAS Postponed to 2025, Launching in Phases
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), originally scheduled to launch in 2024, has now been postponed until mid-2025, with full implementation expected by early 2026. Once live, ETIAS will require travellers from over 60 visa-exempt countries—including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Japan—to obtain electronic travel authorisation before entering most Schengen Area countries.
While not a visa, ETIAS will function as a pre-screening security measure similar to the US ESTA. Travellers will be required to complete an online application and pay a small fee (currently set at €7). Once approved, the authorisation will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires.
It’s important to note that travellers under 18 or over 70 will be exempt from the fee but still required to apply.
UK ETA Scheme in Full Swing
The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system continues to roll out in phases. Nationals from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Jordan are already required to apply. By the end of 2025, this will expand to include travellers from other visa-exempt countries such as the US and EU nations.
The ETA is a digital requirement designed to enhance UK border security. Travellers will need to apply online before departure, and authorisation will be linked electronically to their passport.
Stricter Entry in Asia-Pacific
Japan and South Korea have introduced tighter biometric and security checks at border control. Australia, meanwhile, is favouring long-stay visas for digital nomads and travellers engaged in low-impact, eco-conscious tourism. This aligns with the country’s broader strategy to prioritise sustainable travel.
What This Means for Travellers
Longer Lead Times and Evolving Requirements
As new systems like ETIAS and ETA go live, travellers should expect longer processing times and additional steps when planning a trip. A 2024 WTTC study found that uncertainty around entry requirements contributed significantly to cancelled or delayed travel in the past year.
Added Costs
Although most authorisation systems are relatively low in cost, they do add a layer of expense—especially for families or those visiting multiple countries. This is something to factor into your budget, particularly for complex itineraries.
Destination Trends Are Shifting
Travellers are leaning towards destinations with clear, streamlined entry requirements. Countries such as Portugal, Costa Rica, and the Maldives continue to attract interest with simplified visa policies and traveller-friendly digital nomad programs.
Increased Value in Expert Travel Planning
The demand for knowledgeable, connected travel advisors has never been higher. With policies changing frequently, working with a trusted advisor means you’ll avoid surprises—and unnecessary stress.
At Loving Life Loving, we provide comprehensive, personalised support to ensure every journey is effortless from planning to return.
How to Stay Ahead
Work with a Travel Advisor
A travel advisor (like me) will help you understand the latest entry rules and assist with all necessary documentation so you can focus on the experience, not the paperwork.
Refer to Trusted Tools
Websites like IATA Travel Centre and Sherpa are excellent resources for checking entry requirements tailored to your passport and destination.
Apply Early
Even if a destination offers expedited services, delays are increasingly common in 2025. It’s wise to apply as soon as your travel dates are confirmed.
Review Your Travel Insurance
Look for coverage that includes denied entry, travel delays, and sudden policy changes. A flexible, comprehensive policy is essential in today’s travel climate.
A Changing Landscape, but Travel Moves On
Although the process of international travel is more layered than before, it’s still entirely possible to explore the world with ease. Travellers are becoming more informed, more intentional, and more resilient—and that’s a welcome shift.
At Loving Life Loving, we specialise in personalised, purposeful travel. From long-stay sabbaticals to milestone escapes and private retreats, we tailor every journey to your lifestyle and priorities. We’d love to hear your story. Please share your experiences in the comments or connect with us on Instagram at @lovinglife_loving for real-time travel updates, curated inspiration, and destination insights from around the world.
References
- ETIAS. (2025). European Travel Information and Authorisation System. Available at: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
- GOV.UK. (2024). Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
- WTTC. (2024). Global Trends Impacting the Travel Sector. Available at: https://wttc.org/Research
- IATA Travel Centre. (2025). Passport, Visa & Health Regulations. Available at: https://www.iatatravelcentre.com
- Sherpa. (2025). Entry Requirements Tool. Available at: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions
