Don't Let Travel Paperwork Ruin Your Holiday: What Every Traveller Needs to Know in 2026

Jul 5

3 min read

Picture this: you've packed your suitcase, checked in online, arrived at the airport in plenty of time... only to find yourself stuck in a queue, worried you're going to miss your flight.

It's exactly the kind of situation some travellers have experienced as Europe introduces new border procedures. While these changes are designed to improve security and modernise border controls, they also mean it's more important than ever to make sure you're prepared before you travel.

Here's what you need to know.

What's Changing?

If you're travelling to Europe, you may have heard people talking about EES, ETIAS, ESTA and ETA. It's no wonder there's confusion - they all sound similar, but they serve very different purposes.

Entry/Exit System (EES)

The European Union is introducing a new Entry/Exit System (EES) for non-EU travellers, including UK passport holders.

Instead of simply having your passport stamped, you'll be asked to register your passport details and provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a facial image, when you first enter participating countries.

This first registration can take longer than a traditional passport check, so if you're travelling during busy periods, expect queues to be longer than you're used to.

ETIAS - Not Yet!

One of the biggest misconceptions is that UK travellers already need an ETIAS.

You don't.

ETIAS has not yet been introduced. When it does launch, it will become an online travel authorisation required before visiting most European countries, but applications are not currently open.

If you see websites offering ETIAS applications today, be cautious. Always use official government or EU websites when applying for travel authorisations.

ESTA - Travelling to the USA

If you're travelling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program, you'll still need an approved ESTA before you travel.

Apply well in advance and double-check every detail before submitting your application, as even small mistakes can cause delays.

ETA - Visiting the UK

Many overseas visitors now require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the UK. If you have friends or family visiting from abroad, it's worth making sure they're aware of the new requirement before they book their trip.

Don't Forget Your Passport

Your passport expiry date isn't the only thing that matters.

For travel to most European countries, your passport must:

Have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country.
Have at least three months' validity remaining after the date you plan to leave.

Many people assume that because their passport hasn't expired, it's valid for travel. Unfortunately, that's not always the case.

Five Simple Ways to Avoid Problems

Before you head off on holiday, take a few minutes to:

Check your passport's issue date as well as its expiry date.
Apply for any required travel authorisations well before departure.
Use only official government websites for applications.
Arrive at the airport earlier than usual if travelling to Europe, particularly during school holidays.
Keep digital and paper copies of your important travel documents.

Nickii's Travel Tip

Most travel issues can be avoided with a little preparation.

Travel rules change regularly, and what was correct last year may not be correct today.

Before every holiday, it's worth spending a few minutes checking the latest entry requirements for your destination. It could save you a great deal of stress and help ensure your holiday starts exactly as it should - relaxing from the very beginning.

Need a Hand?

When you book through Nickii Travels, I'm always happy to help you understand the latest travel requirements. Whether it's passport validity, travel authorisations or entry rules, I'll point you in the right direction so you can travel with confidence.

Because the best holidays begin long before you board the plane.

Happy travels!

Nickii Travels