Essential Travel Guidelines for Americans in 2025: Stay Informed!

There are several new travel stipulations that Americans need to be cognizant of as the new year approaches.

Newsweek contacted the European Parliament through email and the British Embassy in Washington, D.C., via an online submission for feedback.

Why It Is Important

Taking an impromptu journey, whether within the United States or internationally, may become more challenging for travelers in 2025 due to these new regulations. Additionally, travelers will incur a small charge for one of the requirements associated with travel to the United Kingdom, which adds to already steep airfare costs.

The new travel stipulation for the U.K. could impact one of the largest international flight routes. Data from the U.S. International Trade Administration indicates that more than 20 million individuals traveled between the U.S. and the U.K. in 2023.

What You Should Be Aware Of

Effective May 7, all Americans 18 years or older flying domestically must present a REAL ID instead of other forms of driver’s licenses or identification cards at airports. The REAL ID is a revised driver’s license or ID card that adheres to federal security guidelines.

Beginning January 8, Americans visiting the U.K. must apply for the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), a screening initiative. An ETA costs approximately $13 and is valid for multiple entries into the U.K. for a period of two years.

In May 2025, the European Union will introduce its European Travel Information and Authorization System. Americans without a visa will need to go through ETIAS and possess a passport to enter Europe.

Reactions from the Public

A representative from the Transportation Security Agency (TSA) informed Newsweek: “TSA is striving to minimize checkpoint holdups by urging all travelers to secure a REAL ID compliant identification or an alternative form of acceptable ID ahead of the May 7, 2025 deadline.”

“TSA has released a proposed regulation that upholds the deadline and offers flexibility for agencies to commence enforcement in a manner that considers security, operational risk, and impact on the public. Although the proposed rule would permit TSA to take a phased approach to enforcement, TSA fully plans to initiate REAL ID enforcement on May 7, 2025,” the representative further stated.

Katy Nastro, a spokesperson for the travel application Going, shared with The Washington Post regarding the ETA requirement: “The worst situation is to apply at the last moment, get stuck in airport limbo while you might receive it in time, or worse, be refused boarding your flight due to lack of approval.”

Virgin Atlantic Airways, one of the major airlines that provides flights to and from the U.S. and U.K., informed the Post that the new travel regulations could “place the U.K. and its carriers at a competitive disadvantage.”

What Comes Next

With the new travel stipulations approaching in just a few days, it is vital to organize your plans accordingly. Upgrade your driver’s license or ID card well ahead of any upcoming flights to ensure you receive the new card in time.

If you are intending to travel to the U.K. on or after January 8, apply for the ETA in advance, as processing the application may take up to three business days. It is also advisable to submit an ETIAS application as soon as you schedule your European trip to ensure that your application is processed without delays.

Update 1/1/25, 9:22 p.m. ET: This article was revised with input from the TSA.