Traveling to Europe in 2026: Changes and New Rules

Travel insurance is mandatory to obtain a Schengen visa!

Author: Anna Lorrain
Date: 01/06/2025

What's Changing for Travelers to Europe in 2026?

The year 2026 brings several new developments for European travel: the European travel authorization ETIAS is coming, the EU's digital Entry/Exit System will be fully implemented, and Latvia, the United Kingdom, and Montenegro are introducing new entry requirements. The good news is you'll have more rights for package holidays, while the bad news is that many European hotspots will be increasing their tourist taxes in 2026.

We'll show you what you need to know for your 2026 trip to Europe so you don't encounter any unpleasant surprises.

Table of Contents:

New Entry Requirements for European Countries

1. The EU's New Entry/Exit System (EES) Will Be Fully Implemented in 2026

2. The EU Travel Authorization ETIAS Will Be Introduced in Late 2026

3. Visa-Free Travelers Will Need an ETA to Travel to Latvia in 2026

4. All Visa-Free Travelers Will Need an ETA for the United Kingdom in 2026

5. British Overseas Territories Jersey, Guernsey, and Isle of Man Introduce Their Own Travel Authorization

6. Montenegro Introduces Digital E-Visa System

1. The EU's New Entry/Exit System (EES) Will Be Fully Implemented in 2026

The Entry/Exit System (EES) was first introduced on October 12, 2025, and will be gradually expanded in 2026. European countries using the EES must have the new system fully implemented at their external borders by April 10, 2026.

All non-EU travelers (e.g., from the United Kingdom, USA, Australia) will then need to not only show their passport but also have their biometric data (fingerprints + photo) recorded. Manual stamping of travel documents will become obsolete.

Good to know: You can find everything you need to know about the new European Entry/Exit System EES in our article.

2. The EU Travel Authorization ETIAS Will Be Introduced in Late 2026

The introduction of the new EU travel authorization ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to be launched in the last quarter of 2026. The European Union will announce the exact start date of ETIAS several months in advance. This means that from presumably late 2026, visa-free travelers should expect to apply for ETIAS before their trip. ETIAS is not equivalent to a visa and can be applied for online in just a few clicks for 20 euros. Applications will be submitted through the official ETIAS website or mobile app.

More information: Learn everything you need to know about ETIAS, which will be introduced in late 2026.

3. Visa-Free Travelers Will Need an ETA to Travel to Latvia in 2026

While this isn't a new change for 2026, we want to draw travelers' attention to the relatively new travel authorization for Latvia.

Many third-country nationals traveling to Latvia without a Latvian visa or residence permit have been required to submit a so-called ETA for Latvia since September 1, 2025 – an electronic travel authorization. Find everything you need to know about the ETA for Latvia here.

Do you need a visa for Latvia? Learn how to apply for a Latvia visa.

4. All Visa-Free Travelers Will Need an ETA for the United Kingdom in 2026

From February 25, 2026, visa-free tourists will no longer be able to travel to the United Kingdom without travel authorization. Visitors from 85 visa-free countries, including the USA, Canada, and Australia, will then require the electronic travel authorization ETA for the UK to travel to the United Kingdom. The cost of the ETA for the United Kingdom is 16 pounds (approximately 19 euros). Find all information about the ETA for the UK here.

Do you need a visa for the United Kingdom? Learn how to apply for a UK visa.

5. British Overseas Territories Jersey, Guernsey, and Isle of Man Introduce Their Own Travel Authorization

While the United Kingdom fully implements the ETA for the UK in 2026, each British overseas territory is also setting up its own ETA system. Although Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man were previously exempt from the ETA requirement, you should expect an ETA registration to be introduced in late 2025 or early 2026.

6. Montenegro Introduces Digital E-Visa System

Although Montenegro is "only" an EU candidate country, it is currently working intensively to align its visa policy with EU standards. As part of this effort, a dedicated electronic visa system for e-visas is planned to be launched in 2026. A Visa Information System (VIS) with a central platform modeled on the EU system is set to be introduced. Once online, travelers requiring visas can submit their visa application online and receive their visa directly by mail.

Good to know: Find out which countries besides Montenegro are currently not part of the Schengen Area.

Border Controls Continue in Certain Schengen Countries in 2026

Although the Schengen Area is one of the world's largest border-free zones, Schengen states can temporarily reinstate controls among themselves in exceptional situations. For 2026, various countries have already announced the following temporary border controls:

  • Germany (until March 15, 2026)
  • Austria (until June 15, 2026)
  • Slovenia (until June 21, 2026)
  • Italy (until June 18, 2026)
  • Netherlands (until June 8, 2026)
  • Denmark (until May 11, 2026)
  • Norway (until May 11, 2026)
  • Sweden (until May 11, 2026)
  • France (until April 30, 2026)
  • Poland (until April 4, 2026)

Source: European Commission

Good to know: Learn more about temporary border controls in the Schengen Area: reasons and official regulations.

EU Tightens Rules for Schengen Multiple-Entry Visas for Russian Citizens

What was already decided by the EU in late 2025 continues to apply in 2026: Russian nationals will no longer receive visas for multiple entry into the EU, but only visas valid for a single entry. The reasons are the increased security risks arising from the war of aggression against Ukraine.

However, some limited exceptions apply for:

  • Close family members of Russian citizens residing in the EU
  • Family members of EU citizens
  • Transport workers, who can receive multiple-entry visas for up to nine months

Good to know: Want to know how to apply for a German visa as a Russian citizen?

Bulgaria Joins the Eurozone on January 1, 2026

From January 1, 2026, the euro will replace the Bulgarian lev. So if you're traveling to this Balkan country, you won't need to get local currency from 2026 onwards. Bulgaria is now also part of the Eurozone, after the country became a full member of the Schengen Area in 2025. Bulgaria is thus the 21st member of the Eurozone.

Do you need a visa for Bulgaria? Learn how to apply for a Bulgaria visa.

Higher Tourism Taxes in European Countries

  1. Higher Tourist Tax Planned in Parts of Spain
  2. Netherlands Drastically Increases VAT on Accommodation
  3. Norway Has Approved a Tourism Tax for 2026
  4. Venice Reintroduces Day-Trip Fee in 2026
  5. Bed Tax in the United Kingdom Possible for 2026


1. Higher Tourist Tax Planned in Parts of Spain

Bad news for travelers to Spain! From 2026, tourism taxes will most likely increase in Spain. Although there is no national legislation yet, several regional governments have confirmed they intend to increase taxes from April 2026.

1. Barcelona (Catalonia): The tourist tax is set to increase by €1 each year. In 2026, it will be €5 per person per night (2027: €6, 2028: €7, 2029: €8).
Flat rate for cruise passengers: €8 per day.

2. Mallorca (Balearic Islands): To curb mass tourism in Mallorca, a higher tourist tax is to be introduced in 2026. According to a proposal by the Spanish union CCOO, the tourist tax in the Balearic Islands could rise to up to 15 euros.

3. Valencia and the Canary Islands: Smaller increases are planned in Valencia and the Canary Islands.

Do you need a visa for Spain? Find out how to apply for a Spanish visa.

2. Netherlands Drastically Increases VAT on Accommodation

In the Netherlands, from January 1, 2026, the VAT on accommodation is set to increase from 9% to 21%. This affects overnight stays in hotels, guesthouses, vacation homes, hostels, and accommodations rented through platforms like Airbnb. Campsites are exempt from the increase. Amsterdam already has one of Europe's highest tourist taxes, which will increase further in 2026.

Do you need a visa for the Netherlands? Learn how to apply for a Netherlands visa.

3. Norway Has Approved a Tourism Tax for 2026

Visiting Norway's fjords and remote Lofoten Islands will become more expensive in 2026. The Norwegian Parliament has responded to public criticism of overtourism and approved a tourist tax. From 2026, heavily affected municipalities can levy a 3% tax on overnight stays. It initially applies only to hotel guests and cruise passengers.

4. Venice Reintroduces Day-Trip Fee in 2026

Venice is getting more expensive too! If you're planning a day trip to Venice in 2026, you'll have to pay again, just like two years ago. Day-trippers must pay from Friday to Sunday in April, May, June, and July.

  • Ticket price for 2026: 10 euros per day
  • Entry fee period: April 3 to July 26

Want to visit Venice too but need a visa for Italy? Find out how to apply for an Italian visa.

5. Bed Tax in the United Kingdom Possible for 2026

Your travel budget will be stretched further in the United Kingdom. The British government has paved the way for mayors to introduce local tourist taxes. The new levy will apply to hotels, B&Bs, vacation rentals, and other paid accommodations.

Here's how the tax may apply in different regions:

  • Edinburgh (Scotland): from July 2026, 5% on room price per night
  • Wales: from April 2027, municipalities may charge £1.30 per person per night
  • England: TBD (to be announced)


New Regulations at European Airports

1. Italy: No More 100ml Liquid Restriction at Certain Italian Airports

2. France: Flight Bans and Fines for Disruptive Passengers

3. EU Introduces New Rules for Package Holidays and Strengthens Travelers' Rights

4. Could Extra Charges for Carry-On Luggage on EU Flights Soon End?

1. Italy: No More 100ml Liquid Restriction at Certain Italian Airports

Certain airports in Italy are using advanced scanners that allow travelers to carry more than 100ml of liquid in their hand luggage. This applies to the following airports*:

  • Rome-Fiumicino
  • Milan
  • Bologna

*does not apply to transit passengers

2. France: Flight Bans and Fines for Disruptive Passengers

Anyone who doesn't follow airline rules on a flight in France will face hefty penalties in the future. For repeat offenses, fines range between €10,000 and €20,000. France announced these strict measures in November 2025 as cases of disruptive behavior have been increasing and jeopardizing flight safety.

You should follow these three rules in the future:

  • Do not use electronic devices during the flight

  • Do not obstruct the crew's work
  • Do not refuse safety instructions from crew members

Planning a flight to France but need a visa? Find out how to apply for a French visa.

3. EU Introduces New Rules for Package Holidays and Strengthens Travelers' Rights

The EU is planning a comprehensive reform of package travel rules – one of the biggest improvements in travel protection in years. The goal is to offer travelers significantly more clarity, fairness, and security following experiences with travel cancellations and slow refunds. In the future, consumers should be better informed, receive their money back faster, and be able to cancel more flexibly in exceptional circumstances.

When is this coming: EU governments and the European Parliament have reached a political agreement. The next step is the adoption of the law. Member states will then have 28 months to transpose the regulations into national law.

4. Could Extra Charges for Carry-On Luggage on EU Flights Soon End?

This regulation hasn't been passed yet but could come in 2026. In summer 2025, the European Parliament's Transport Committee voted for a proposal that would allow passengers to bring two pieces of hand luggage at no extra cost. Until now, budget airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair, Wizz, and others have often charged high fees.

This means travelers could potentially bring the following at no extra cost:

  • One piece of hand luggage up to 100 cm in size (up to 7 kg)
  • And one personal item with a maximum size of 40 x 30 x 15 cm on board
  • Choose seats for children under 12 so families can sit together

Museums and Attractions: Price Increases and Changes

1. France: Higher Prices for Famous Attractions for Non-EU Citizens

2. Spain: Sagrada Familia in Barcelona Building Dedicated Selfie Zone

3. Italy: Trevi Fountain in Rome Will Charge Admission from 2026


1. France: Higher Prices for Famous Attractions for Non-EU Citizens

For the first time, starting January 2026, different admission prices will be charged for visitors from Europe and outside Europe. This type of differentiation already exists in some places internationally, such as in China (Beijing), the USA (New York), and Sri Lanka. This affects five famous attractions in Paris and France:

  • Louvre in Paris: 45% price increase (€32 instead of €22)
  • La Sainte Chapelle in Paris: (€22 instead of €18)
  • Palace of Versailles: €3 more for non-EU citizens (€35 instead of €32)
  • Château de Chambord: (€31 instead of €21)
  • Paris Opera (not yet announced)

2. Spain: Sagrada Familia in Barcelona Building Dedicated Selfie Zone


There's a lot happening around the Sagrada Familia. The church has not only recently become the tallest church in the world but is also developing concepts to combat overtourism and protect Barcelona residents. Therefore, a dedicated selfie zone for tourists is being built by April 2026. Until recently, tourists were imitating TikTok trends at Plaça Gaudí, causing blockages and disruptions.

3. Italy: Trevi Fountain in Rome Will Charge Admission from 2026


Starting January 7, 2026, you won't just be throwing away the coin you traditionally toss into the Trevi Fountain. Tourists in Rome will then have to pay €2 admission to visit the famous fountain. Entry remains free for locals. The measure is intended to counter the tourist crowds.

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