15 Urgent Visa Changes Every Traveler Needs to Know Before Booking This Year
2. ETIAS and ETA: The New Travel Authorizations for Visa-Free Nations
Even for citizens of traditionally "visa-free" countries (like the US, Canada, UK, Australia), new electronic travel authorizations are becoming mandatory. The EU's ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is set to launch soon, requiring pre-approval for entry to the Schengen Area. Similarly, countries like Canada (eTA) and Australia (ETA) already have these. These aren't visas, but necessary online registrations. Travelers must apply in advance, understand the validity period (typically 3 years or until passport expiry), and note they do not guarantee entry.
