Major Changes in Europe in 2025 | Prepare for Your Trip to Europe

With the arrival of 2025, the EU is poised to introduce significant changes in travel and policy, featuring enhanced border systems, an expansion of the Schengen area, the introduction of new tourist taxes, and more stringent regulations regarding residence permits. Uncover what lies ahead and its impact on you.

With the arrival of 2025 on the horizon, important travel and policy changes are poised to transform the European Union’s landscape. From sophisticated border systems to broader Schengen membership and the introduction of new tourist taxes, these developments will affect both travellers and residents equally. Here is a summary of the important updates for 2025:

Significant Changes Ahead for EU Travel

Explore the essential travel updates influencing the European Union in 2025. Expect a range of changes, including advanced border controls, expanded Schengen access, and updated tourist taxes.

1. Introduction of Enhanced Border Systems: EES and ETIAS

In 2025, the EU plans to implement two significant border systems aimed at improving security and optimizing entry procedures:

Entry/Exit System (EES)

This eagerly anticipated system seeks to eliminate the need for manual passport stamping at EU borders. The launch, originally scheduled for 2024, has been delayed. The Entry-Exit System will document all travellers, irrespective of visa obligations, at the time of their entry and exit from the Schengen Area.

• Replaces the process of manually stamping passports.
• Registers all travellers at the external borders of the EU.
• No pre-trip action is required from travellers.

European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)

Travellers from more than 60 visa-exempt countries will need to apply for authorization through this visa waiver pre-screening system prior to entering the EU. The ETIAS rollout will occur after the implementation of the EES.

• Required for travellers from more than 60 countries who are exempt from visa requirements.
• Individuals seeking to visit the EU are required to submit their applications online prior to their arrival.
• The objective is to enhance security for both the EU and travellers.

Timeline: ETIAS will follow EES a few months later. Launch dates are unknown yet.

2. Bulgaria and Romania Joins the Schengen Area Completely

Bulgaria and Romania are set to attain full Schengen membership on January 1, 2025, facilitating the unrestricted movement of individuals across their land borders with other Schengen nations.

• Internal border controls with Schengen neighbours will be eliminated at land borders.
• Enables smooth travel experiences for both residents and visitors.

3. Changes to Golden Visa Programs

Greece Expands Its Golden Visa Program

The Greek Golden Visa program will introduce a new investment pathway centered on startups. This will provide a different pathway to residency for individuals investing in qualifying companies. The Greece Golden Visa entails the following requirements:

• A minimum investment of €250,000 is required in approved startups.
• Equity participation is capped at 33%.
• Establishment of a minimum of two positions within the initial year.
• Keeping the workforce intact for five years.

Spain is set to discontinue its property-based golden visa program.

Spain’s initial intention to terminate Golden Visas linked to property investment has been called into question following the Senate’s veto, leaving the future of this change uncertain.

4. Introduction and Rise of Tourist Taxes

In 2025, various European destinations are set to implement or increase tourist taxes. The purpose of these measures is to address over-tourism, safeguard heritage, and enhance the experiences of visitors.

Portugal: Madeira is set to broaden its tourist tax to encompass all hiking trails, while Évora intends to implement a new tourist tax aimed at financing tourism-related infrastructure.

• Madeira extends its €3 trail fee to encompass all 30 hiking routes.
• Évora is set to introduce a new tourist tax, with details yet to be announced.

Italy: Venice plans to raise the tourist tax for last-minute visitors in an effort to address overtourism.

• The current €5 tax will increase to €10 for last-minute visitors on certain days beginning in April 2025.

Greece: Anticipate a notable increase in tourist taxes throughout the nation.

• The daily tourist tax rises from €0.5 to €2.
• High-season taxes increase to €8.5.

5. Stricter Rules for Residence Permits in France

In 2025, France will introduce new language requirements for residence permits. Individuals applying for multi-year permits are required to show A2-level proficiency, whereas those pursuing 10-year permits must possess B1-level skills.

• Multi-year permits at A2 level.
• B1 level for permits valid for 10 years.

The government has not yet revealed the date for implementation, but the changes are designed to foster integration and improve local engagement.

6. UK Travel Authorisation (ETA) Required for EU Citizens

Starting April 2, 2025, EU citizens travelling to the UK without a visa will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). The ETA is available for €11, permitting unlimited short trips within a 60-day period, and is valid for two years. Applications will be available starting March 5, 2025, and are applicable to travellers of all ages, including infants.

• The fee for each application is €11.
• Applicable for a duration of two years, allowing for unlimited journeys of up to 60 days.
• Applications will be available starting March 5, 2025.

Top European Cities to Visit in 2025

There are many amazing European cities to visit in the summer of 2025. From San Francisco, the travel to Europe takes 12–15 hours, so I pack in many destinations over two weeks to make it worth it. My top European cities to visit in 2025 depend on your travel goals.

Here are the top European big cities to visit in 2025

Paris, France

For good reason, Paris is always in the top three European tourist destinations. Paris is famous for its coffee, pastries, Eiffel Tower, and Louvre, as well as its shopping. The city’s picturesque streets and active café culture make it ideal for strolling along the Seine or exploring Montmartre and Le Marais. Paris has unequaled history, beauty, and vibrancy.

Rome, Italy

Rome offers it all—rich history, world-class food, diverse neighbourhoods, and amazing nightlife. The Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain are Europe’s most beautiful historical sites. Trains connect it to several nearby cities, giving it an excellent site to start your tour.

Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca is the most beautiful blue water I’ve ever seen, with amazing bays to explore without waves. Following a day at the beach, Mallorca offers dynamic city life in Palma or picturesque alpine cities like Deià. The island is one of my favorite places ever.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

One of Europe’s most picturesque medieval towns, Dubrovnik is encircled by the Adriatic Sea and 78 tiny islands. Dubrovnik has many attractions, including the Elaphiti Islands, Montenegro, and its own activities. If you like partying, the nightlife is great here. Watch the sunset from Buza Bar on a boat!

Capri, Italy

A short ferry trip from Positano takes you to Capri on the Amalfi Coast. Capri offers one of the best beach clubs on the Amalfi Coast, the Blue Grotto, Monte Solaro Chairlift, and limoncello. Also, I recommend staying here overnight to avoid the midday throng. The Amalfi Coast is one of Europe’s most romantic and gorgeous.

In Conclusion

The forthcoming changes highlight the EU’s commitment to security, sustainable tourism, and more efficient travel. Whether you’re planning a trip or contemplating a move, being aware of these updates is essential for a smooth experience in 2025.

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