Many countries will soon require travelers from nations with visa waiver programs (VWP) to preregister and prescreen before they travel. If you’re from a country on your destination’s visa-waivered list, you may now have to pay and register for an electronic travel authorization.
Key Takeaways
- Visa waiver programs (VWP) allow visitors from specific countries to enter without a visa.
- In 2025, the UK and EU are adding additional security measures for visa-waived visitors.
- Additional application fees mean more costs to travelers.
UK and EU Changes
Since 2008, the U.S. has required visitors who don’t need visas to preregister and pre-screen for travel through its Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The United Kingdom’s version, Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), began in January 2025. These systems include a fee, increasing travel costs.
The European Union’s Entry and Exit System (EES) registers all travelers entering Europe. Its new Electronic Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will begin in 2025 and link to a traveler’s passport.
Thirty EU countries, including Spain, Italy, and France, will require incoming visa-exempt travelers to have an ETIAS travel authorization. This includes travelers from 60 non-EU visa-exempt countries, such as Canada and the United States, who plan to visit any of the 30 European countries for up to 90 days.
Although most ETIAS applications are processed online immediately, travelers should plan for delays of up to 30 days and apply for an ETIAS at least one month before travel to the EU.
Entry Fees
- United States: Travelers from participating VWP countries can travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days if they have an electronic passport or “e-Passport” valid for at least six months before departure, complete the ESTA application online, and pay $21, which includes a $4 processing fee and a $17 authorization fee.
- United Kingdom: The new 2025 ETA changes cost £10 per application (approximately $12 or $13) and allow business or vacation travelers without visas to stay in the UK for up to six months.
- European Union: When the ETIAS changes begin, travelers will pay a fee of €7 (approximately $7) and the ETIAS allows them to travel up to 90 days.
Other Travel Requirements
Countries with existing ETA systems and applicable fees include, but are not limited to:
- New Zealand (Estimated fee is NZD 17)
- Canada
- Australia
- Korea (Visa-waivered country residents are exempt from needing an ETA until Dec. 31, 2025, to stimulate tourism)
- Japan (Called an eVISA)
- Israel
The Bottom Line
Travel can be expensive and costs increase as governments try to provide more security for those living within their borders. Travelers should review their destination’s travel rules as governments implement electronic pre-registration and screening.
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