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Navigating 2025 Travel Rules: Real ID, ETIAS, and the New Era of Travel


City in Greece at nighttime

The travel landscape is evolving in 2025, bringing new requirements for travelers planning international trips or even just within the U.S. Whether you're flying domestically or jetting off to Europe in business class, understanding these new regulations will ensure a seamless journey.


Here’s what you need to know to prepare for your travels this year.


 

Real ID Compliance for Domestic Flights

Airline travel time wait board in airport

Starting May 7, 2025, all U.S. travelers aged 18 and older will need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license or an alternative form of identification, such as a passport, to board domestic flights. This mandate, part of the 2005 Real ID Act, aims to enhance security nationwide (source: Department of Homeland Security).


For luxury travelers accustomed to expedited services and first class lounges, it’s critical to check that your identification is compliant well before your trip. Upgrading to expedited passport renewal services may be a wise choice if your Real ID isn’t ready in time. Travelers departing from private airports or flying with premium carriers should still confirm that their identification complies with TSA regulations.


Make an appointment with your local DMV or passport agency to ensure you’re prepared. While private jet terminals may feel far removed from these requirements, all air travel within the U.S. falls under the same federal guidelines.



UK Travel Authorization (ETA)

London skyline during the day

Beginning January 8, 2025, visitors to the United Kingdom from 48 countries, including the U.S., must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before their trip. This new system is part of the UK’s border modernization efforts (source: United Kingdom government).


Travelers visiting iconic British destinations such as London or the Scottish Highlands should budget time to complete the online application since this is to be done prior to your travel date.  The ETA is valid for multiple visits over two years and costs approximately $12. While this is a minor fee for most travelers, it’s an essential step to avoid delays at immigration.


As of January 8, 2025, travelers from the following countries can apply for a UK ETA:


  • Antigua and Barbuda

  • Argentina

  • Australia

  • The Bahamas

  • Bahrain

  • Barbados

  • Belize

  • Botswana

  • Brazil

  • Brunei

  • Canada

  • Chile

  • Costa Rica

  • Grenada

  • Guatemala

  • Guyana

  • Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (including British National Overseas)

  • Israel

  • Japan

  • Kiribati

  • Kuwait

  • Macao Special Administrative Region

  • Malaysia

  • Maldives

  • Marshall Islands

  • Mauritius

  • Mexico

  • Federated States of Micronesia

  • Nauru

  • New Zealand

  • Nicaragua

  • Oman

  • Palau

  • Panama

  • Papua New Guinea

  • Paraguay

  • Peru

  • Qatar

  • Samoa

  • Saudi Arabia

  • Seychelles

  • Singapore

  • Solomon Islands

  • South Korea

  • St Kitts and Nevis

  • St Lucia

  • St Vincent and the Grenadines

  • Taiwan (if your passport includes your identification card number issued by the competent authority in Taiwan)

  • Tonga

  • Trinidad and Tobago

  • Tuvalu

  • United Arab Emirates

  • United States

  • Uruguay


Additionally, starting March 5, 2025, nationals from the following countries can apply for an ETA, allowing travel to the UK from April 2, 2025:


  • Andorra

  • Austria

  • Belgium

  • Bulgaria

  • Croatia

  • Cyprus

  • Czechia

  • Denmark

  • Estonia

  • Finland

  • France

  • Germany

  • Greece

  • Hungary

  • Iceland

  • Italy

  • Latvia

  • Liechtenstein

  • Lithuania

  • Luxembourg

  • Malta

  • Monaco

  • Netherlands

  • Norway

  • Poland

  • Portugal

  • Romania

  • San Marino

  • Slovakia

  • Slovenia

  • Spain

  • Sweden

  • Switzerland

  • Vatican City




ETIAS for European Union Countries

Italian building

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) launches in 2025, requiring travelers from over 30 countries (including the U.S.) to obtain pre-authorization for trips to most of the EU, including France, Italy, and Spain (source: the European Union).


Travelers will need ETIAS authorization to enter the following 30 European countries:


  • 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

  • Switzerland


The ETIAS process involves a simple online application costing approximately $8. Application processing times can vary, ranging from minutes to days, so it is important you take that into consideration. The authorization remains valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. 


Citizens from the following visa-exempt countries and territories will need to apply for ETIAS authorization before traveling to the countries listed above:


  • Albania

  • Antigua and Barbuda

  • Argentina

  • Australia

  • Bahamas

  • Barbados

  • Bosnia and Herzegovina

  • Brazil

  • Brunei

  • Canada

  • Chile

  • Colombia

  • Costa Rica

  • Dominica

  • El Salvador

  • Georgia

  • Grenada

  • Guatemala

  • Honduras

  • Hong Kong

  • Israel

  • Japan

  • Kiribati

  • Kosovo

  • Macao

  • Malaysia

  • Marshall Islands

  • Mauritius

  • Mexico

  • Micronesia

  • Moldova

  • Montenegro

  • New Zealand

  • Nicaragua

  • North Macedonia

  • Palau

  • Panama

  • Paraguay

  • Peru

  • Saint Kitts and Nevis

  • Saint Lucia

  • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

  • Samoa

  • Serbia

  • Seychelles

  • Singapore

  • Solomon Islands

  • South Korea

  • Taiwan

  • Timor-Leste

  • Tonga

  • Trinidad and Tobago

  • Tuvalu

  • Ukraine

  • United Arab Emirates

  • United Kingdom

  • United States of America

  • Uruguay

  • Venezuela


As of now, there is no set date on when this travel authorization system will be implemented.




European Entry/Exit System (EES)

European waterway

Complementing the ETIAS, the European Entry/Exit System (EES) also debuts this year. This automated system will register the entry and exit of non-EU travelers at European borders (source: the European Union).


For travelers accustomed to breezing through VIP immigration channels, the EES adds a layer of accountability by recording biometric data like fingerprints and facial scans. While this may extend border wait times slightly, premium services at select airports offer fast-track options.


Make sure to work with airlines and luxury concierge providers that can assist with expedited services. Many European airports, such as Zurich and Munich, have upgraded their luxury facilities to make this process as smooth as possible.



 

For high-end travelers, adapting to these changes requires thoughtful planning and access to premium services. Working with experienced travel advisors who specialize in luxury travel can make all the difference. Whether it’s arranging priority visa services, providing real-time travel updates, or securing reservations at exclusive destinations, attention to detail is paramount.


The Flight King, for instance, offers bespoke travel solutions to handle new regulatory requirements seamlessly. From assisting with document preparation to curating unforgettable travel itineraries, our services ensure your journey is both luxurious and stress-free.



 


The travel industry is constantly changing, and staying informed is crucial for a hassle-free experience. While the new regulations may seem daunting, they also pave the way for enhanced security and streamlined border controls. 


As you plan your 2025 adventures, let The Flight King handle the logistics, so you can focus on savoring every moment of your journey—from the champagne in first class to the unparalleled service once you reach your destination.


For more information and assistance with your travel plans, contact us or visit our blog for the latest updates.



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