Europe’s 2025 Travel Overhaul: Stricter Borders, Rising Costs, and Tourist Conduct Rules Reshape the Continent’s Tourism Landscape
05-12-2025 | Europe –
In a sweeping shift across the continent, Europe has introduced a raft of new travel regulations in 2025, affecting everything from border entry procedures to accommodation costs and visitor behaviour. The changes reflect a growing effort by European governments to balance booming tourism with local sustainability, security, and quality-of-life concerns.
Digital Borders: Entry/Exit System (EES) Launches
The most significant change is the launch of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES) on 12 October 2025, replacing traditional passport stamping for non-EU travellers. Under the new system, visitors crossing external Schengen borders must now submit biometric data—including fingerprints and facial images—electronically upon arrival. The system applies to all EU countries except Ireland and Cyprus, and includes Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
The EES aims to track visa overstayers, strengthen border security, and streamline entry procedures. However, technical delays have plagued its rollout, with the UK’s Port of Dover postponing implementation for car passengers until 2026 to avoid holiday travel disruptions.
ETIAS and UK ETA: Digital Permits Delayed
Originally scheduled to follow the EES, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) has now been delayed until late 2026. Once active, ETIAS will require visa-exempt travellers to obtain a €20 electronic permit before entering the Schengen Area. The permit will be valid for three years, allowing stays of up to 90 days within 180 days.
Meanwhile, the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)—soft-launched in 2023—will become mandatory from February 2026. Tourists from 85 visa-exempt countries must apply for a £16 (€18.20) digital permit for short stays of up to six months.
Tourist Taxes and Accommodation Restrictions
Beyond border controls, European cities are tightening rules to combat mass tourism and rising living costs. Tourist taxes have expanded across Iceland, Spain, Norway, and the UK, with nightly fees added to hotel bills. Venice continues its day-tripper fee, aimed at reducing overcrowding in the historic city.
Major cities like Paris and Barcelona have also introduced restrictions on short-term rentals, including Airbnb-style accommodations, to curb inflated housing prices and preserve residential communities. These measures have reduced the availability of budget lodging, pushing up travel costs.
Behaviour Crackdowns: Quality Over Quantity
In a broader cultural shift, European destinations are increasingly promoting “quality tourism”—prioritising high-spending, respectful visitors over mass budget travel. This includes behavioural monitoring, with stricter enforcement of local codes of conduct in popular areas. Some cities have introduced fines for public disturbances, inappropriate attire, and disrespectful behaviour in heritage zones.
What Travellers Should Expect
For tourists planning European trips in 2025 and beyond, preparation is key. Expect longer border wait times, higher accommodation costs, and stricter behavioural expectations. While the changes may feel burdensome, officials argue they are necessary to preserve Europe’s cultural heritage, protect residents, and ensure sustainable tourism.