New rules for Aussies travelling to Europe in 2025
<p>The European Union has introduced new rules for Aussie travellers planning a trip to Europe in 2025. </p>
<p>The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) program, is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals from 60 nations, including Australians, which will be introduced in the first half of 2025. </p>
<p>The new travel authorisation requirement will apply to 30 countries within Europe including: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, 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.</p>
<p>With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter any of the European countries listed above as often as you want for short-term stays which is usually up to 90 days in any 180-day period.</p>
<p>“However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions," the EU website states. </p>
<p>The ETIAS will cost around seven Euros ($11.50) and is linked to your passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. </p>
<p>If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS. </p>
<p>Travellers can apply using an online application form on the ETIAS website, or apply through their app. </p>
<p>Most applications are processed within minutes but some applications may take longer to process. </p>
<p>“If so, you will receive a decision within four days.</p>
<p>“Please note that this period could be extended by up to 14 days if you are requested to provide additional information or documentation, or up to 30 days if you are invited to an interview.”</p>
<p>After the application, “you will receive an email confirming the submission of your application which will include your unique ETIAS application number: make sure you keep this number for future reference.” </p>
<p>“Once your application has been processed, you will receive another email informing you about its outcome.</p>
<p>“When you get your ETIAS travel authorisation please make sure your name, passport number and other information is correct: if there is any mistake, you will not be allowed to cross the border.”</p>
<p>Travellers are required to always carry the same travel documents used in their ETIAS application “otherwise, you will not be allowed to board your flight, bus or ship, or to enter any of the European countries requiring ETIAS.”</p>
<p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>
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