Aussies planning a European vacation this year can expect to see a series of changes into the way they travel.
New requirements such as fingerprinting and photographing upon arrival, as well as a new entry fee, are some of the new measures being rolled out across many European countries.
Daily Mail Australia has put together a simple guide to help travellers stay informed and avoid any surprises before their next getaway.
European Entry and Exit System
A brand new European Entry and Exit System (EES) is set to be introduced in October this year.
The EES will impact all non-European nationals, such as Australians, who are travelling in the Schengen Zone.
The Schengen Zone is made up of 29 European countries that have removed internal border rules, which allows for visa-free travel between one another.
It includes all 25 European Union member states, and four other countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Aussies planning a European vacation this year can expect to see a series of changes into the way they travel (pictured stock image of Greece)
The EES is a digital border, which requires all non-EU travelers to be fingerprinted and photographed before they can enter the country.
The biometric data will be used if travellers return within three years.
An exact start date for the EES is not yet confirmed.
Schengen Area Entry Rules
Australians can travel visa-free in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, visiting family or friends, attending cultural or sports events, transit, official visits, medical treatment, short-term studies, or research.
To enter, your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.
Aussies should be sure to get their passport stamped upon arrival in their first Schengen country.
An unclear or missing stamp could result in fines or detention.
A brand new European Entry and Exit System (EES) is set to be introduced in October this year (pictured in Rome)
In some countries, you may also need to register your stay within three days of arrival.
For detailed entry and exit requirements for each Schengen country, check the Smart Traveller website
Information on temporary border controls is available on the European Commission website.
Note that non-Schengen countries have separate entry rules. You can find up-to-date information by contacting the relevant embassy, high commission, or consulate.
When to get a Visa
Anyone planning a stay longer than 90 days in the Schengen Zone will need a visa.
Travellers will need to apply from outside the country, through the embassy, high commission, or consulate of the country where they’ll spend the most time, or the first country they will enter from if the stay length is the same.
Visa rules apply to Australian passport holders. Dual nationals should check entry requirements for their other nationality.
Anyone who wants to stay in the Schengen Zone for more than 90 days will need a visa
Dual nationals should check requirements before travelling
Find foreign embassies and consulates in Australia on the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) website.
Changes coming in 2026
Starting in 2026, all visitors to Europe, including Australians, will need to apply for authorisation through the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) before entering.
The ETIAS will cost the equivalent of $12 and will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Before entry is granted, travellers will undergo a security screening when visiting any participating European country.
