EU’S NEW ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM (EES)
Traveling to Europe Soon? What You Should Know About the EU’s New Entry/Exit System (EES)
The European Union has rolled out a new Entry/Exit System (EES) to make border crossings smoother and more secure. The system records basic passport and biometric details (like a photo or fingerprints) for non-EU travelers visiting 29 European countries for short stays — up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Who’s affected:
All non-EU travelers, including those from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.
What to expect:
Starting October 2025, border checks may take a few extra minutes the first time you enter Europe. Once your information is in the system, future crossings should be faster and easier.
No new visas are required, and EU residents or long-stay visa holders are exempt.
To learn more — including which countries are part of the EES and how your data is handled — visit the official EU site.
REAL ID NOTICE
Important Reminder: REAL ID Requirement Now in Effect
As of May 7, 2025, standard Washington State driver’s licenses are no longer accepted for domestic air travel or entry to certain federal facilities. To fly within the U.S., you must present a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, an enhanced driver’s license, or another TSA-approved form of identification (such as a passport or military ID).
Check your ID before you travel to avoid disruptions at the airport. For more information, visit the Washington State Department of Licensing or TSA.gov/REALID.
UK TRAVEL NOTICE
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Now Required
As of January 8, 2025, all travelers connecting through or visiting the United Kingdom must have an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). If you plan to stay longer than six months, you will need to apply for a visa instead.
The fastest way to apply is through the phone app:
- Download the app from the App Store.
- Download the app from the Google Play Store.
If you cannot use the app, you can also apply online at the official UK government website.
QUICK FACTS
- You’ll need a photo of your passport and a photo of your face.
- An ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple visits.
- If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETA.
- The cost is about £10 per person.
- Decisions are typically made within three business days.
- An ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK.
AAA Washington reminds travelers to secure proper documentation in advance — we are not responsible for denied boarding or entry due to incomplete travel documents.
To learn more, please visit gov.uk.