2025 has barely started and I’m already plotting my next trip. This year brings some major changes in the way we’ll travel but fear not, we’ve rounded up the biggest updates and you’ll find all of the information you need here. Trips to the UK, Brazil and much of Europe will take a little extra planning starting this year but, don’t worry, with this handy list you’ll be jet-setting in no time.
1. Real ID Requirements
We’ve been hearing about the Real ID travel requirement for years and now it’s finally set to go into effect this year. The Real ID requirement has been pushed back multiple times but we have a new official date! Starting on May 7, 2025 every traveler over 18 will need to have a Real ID compliant form of identification for domestic flights. This could be a driver’s license, passport, or passport card. I didn’t want to go through the trouble of upgrading my license, so when my passport came up for renewal in 2021, I ordered a passport card and opted for the Real ID compliant version. This change has been on the horizon for awhile so if you’re not sure if your ID is a Real ID, look for a yellow circle with a white star in the center. You can find more information about the new Real ID requirements here.
2. Brazil’s New e-Visa
Take special note of this one because we want to see you at Black Travel Summit in November! Starting on April 10th, visitors traveling to Brazil will need an e-visa. This will affect visitors from Australia and Canada as well. The application will cost $81 and you can visit the official website here to apply. Approvals should be good for ten years according to the US embassy website and visitors may stay for up to 90 days. Quick tip: You’ll need a 2×2 photo of yourself as part of your application. Head to CVS for a passport style photo that should be ready in minutes. They’re great to have on hand for all international travel as these photos can be used for the ID and discount cards you’ll need during longer stays.
3. New Exit/Entry System for the European Union
Travel lovers were thrown into a tailspin when it was announced that as part of the new automated Entry/Exit System (EES) their passports would no longer be stamped during visits to the EU starting November 10, 2024. This year, Americans will need to apply through the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) to visit the European Union as well. The application will cost 7 euros according to the European Commission’s website. First proposed in November 2016, the ETIAS requirements are set to go into effect this year (we think). The ETIAS program has been delayed several times already. According to CNN, the program was originally scheduled to go into effect in May 2023. While the official EU website doesn’t list an exact date, most sources I found anticipate a start sometime in the first half of 2025. According to the EU website, decisions will be made and authorization given within minutes, with a maximum wait time of 4 days. The good news is that once you’ve been approved, your authorization will be good for three years.
4. The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization
Starting January 8th, Americans traveling to the UK for tourism, family visits, business or short term study (that’s 6 months or less) will need to have Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The application will cost £10 and most visitors will have a decision within 3 working days. Visitors can apply online and learn more here. Quick tip: You’ll need a photo of yourself as part of your application. And if you’re looking for an amazing Black-owned hotel and members club in the UK, check out our article on the 10 Best Black Owned-Owned Hotels and Resorts Around the World.
5. Online passport renewal
Okay, this was a change in 2024 but it’s so major I had to include it. After years of wishing and waiting, the US Department of State finally opened online passport renewal in September after a beta launch period. You can still renew your passport by mail but if you want to renew your passport online or learn more visit this site.
