Know Before You Go….Travel Tips
With international travel wide open and more accessible than ever, staying informed is key to a smooth journey. From updated U.S. ID policies to new entry requirements in Europe and the UK, here’s what you need to know to travel smart in 2025.
✈️ REAL ID
If you plan to fly domestically in the U.S. next year, your standard driver's license will no longer cut it. Starting May 7, 2025, all travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant license or another TSA-approved form of ID (like a passport) to board domestic flights.
How to know if you have it:
Look for a star in the upper right corner of your license. No star? Time to make a DMV appointment.
If you already use your passport for all flights, no changes needed—but it's a good idea to double-check your expiration date while you're thinking about documents.
🇬🇧 Traveling to the UK? ETA Now Required
If you're heading to the UK, take note: U.S. passport holders are now required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entry. This new system, similar to the U.S. ESTA, is already in effect and applies to visitors from visa-exempt countries, including the United States.
What you need to know:
Apply online before your trip
Pay a small fee
Once approved, your ETA is valid for multiple visits over a two-year period (or until your passport expires)
The application is straightforward, but it’s essential to complete it well in advance of your travel dates. If the UK is on your itinerary this year or next, don’t forget this new step—it’s now part of the planning process.
🇧🇷 Brazil Reinstates Visa Requirement for U.S. Travelers
After nearly six years of visa-free travel, Brazil has reinstated its visa requirement for U.S. citizens as of April 10, 2025. Travelers must now obtain an electronic visa (eVisa) prior to entry.
Key details:
Submit online through the official portal: brazil.vfsevisa.com
Processed in approximately five business days
eVisas are valid for up to 10 years, allowing stays of up to 90 days per year
🇪🇺 ETIAS: Proposed Entry Requirement for Europe
Slated for end of 2026, U.S. travelers heading to most European countries (including France, Italy, Spain, Greece, and others) will need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
This is not a visa, but an added security measure. Like the UK’s ETA, it will involve an online application, a small fee, and advance planning.
The details:
Valid for three years once approved
Required for travelers of all ages
Linked to your passport electronically
We recommend setting a reminder to apply at least a month before your trip, especially during peak travel periods.
🌍 A Few Final Tips for Smooth Travels
Check Your Passport: Many countries require 6 months’ validity beyond your travel dates. It's also wise to provide a copy to a trusted family member in case of emergency or if your documents are lost while traveling.
Travel Insurance: It’s not just for emergencies—delays, cancellations, and baggage issues are more common than ever.
Driving Abroad: If you're planning to rent a car, your destination might require an International Driving Permit—some countries do not recognize a standard U.S. driver’s license.
As always, Springboard Travel is here to help you navigate every step of the travel process—so you can focus on the fun part: exploring somewhere new!