Planning a trip to Italy in 2025? Major Italy travel requirements will take effect this year, impacting identification rules and entry processes for U.S. and international travelers visiting European countries.
REAL ID: The US
Beginning May 7, 2025, all American citizens must have a REAL ID to board domestic flights. Passed in 2005, the REAL ID Act sets “… standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” All states, territories, and the District of Columbia have been issuing REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses and IDs.
Licenses and IDs that are REAL IDs will have one of several markings on the upper portion of the card (See photo above for examples). Enhanced drivers licenses (EDLs)—issued by Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and Washington—are acceptable for international border crossings.
ETIAS: The European Union
The European Union is once again ready to implement the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) this year. Citizens from visa-exempt third countries, including the United Stats and Canada, will have to obtain authorization before traveling to a number of European countries. Set to be implemented by mid-2025, ETIAS aims to enhance security within the European Union (EU).
Currently, travelers from over 60 countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan, can enter the Schengen Area and other EU countries without a visa for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period). Travelers will now complete an online form that asks for basic personal details, travel information, and answers to a series of security-related questions. The majority of applications will be processed instantly, and most travelers will receive approval within minutes.
Once granted, your ETIAS travel permit will remain valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can use it for multiple short visits to countries within that period. Note that the ETIAS is not a visa but a tool to streamline entry procedures to ensure safety and security across Europe.
ETA: The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom will start enforcing the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in January 2025. The ETA applies to travelers from visa-exempt countries, including those noted above. As with the EU’s ETIAS, the ETA is an international travel authorization systems that aims to enhance border security and improve the efficiency of immigration controls. At this point, you will need an ETA even if you have a flight connection through the UK.
The entire process is similar to that of the ETIAS. You will need to apply online before your trip and provide information similar to that of the ETIAS questionnaire. Most travelers will receive approval within minutes. Once approved, the ETA will be valid for up to two years or until the your passport expires, allowing multiple short visits during that period.
Note that the ETA will not replace the need for a visa if you intend to stay long-term or work in the UK.
Why?
The primary goal of these new travel requirements is to bolster border security by identifying potential threats before travelers arrive. They are also designed to reduce processing time at entry points and streamline travel for millions of visitors annually.
