Saturday, December 28, 2024
Greece and Spain are introducing tougher travel rules, increased fees, and enhanced security for UK tourists in 2025, requiring careful planning for upcoming trips.
UK holidaymakers planning trips abroad in 2025 should be aware of several new regulations and fees set to take effect.
Popular European destinations, including Greece and Spain, will enforce new travel rules and charges, some of which will be in place before the summer season begins.
The EU is introducing two key systems requiring UK tourists to secure permits before visiting any of the 29 European countries. These changes will also impact how they cross borders upon arrival.
Additionally, many locations are increasing their tourist taxes and other visitor fees, which travelers must factor into their budgets.
Entry/Exit System (EES)
After multiple delays, the Entry/Exit System (EES) is finally set to launch in 2025. The European Commission is planning a phased roll-out of this new digital border system, which will apply to non-EU citizens visiting Schengen area countries, such as Spain, Greece, Portugal, and France.
While the exact start date is yet to be confirmed, member states will have six months from the launch to implement the system. EES will replace manual passport stamping. Instead, travelers will have their photo and fingerprints taken upon arrival. During future visits, biometric data will be cross-checked, and passports will be scanned at self-service kiosks each time they cross an EU external border.
This system is designed to enhance border security and track those who overstay their 90-day visa-free limit. Children under 12 will not be required to provide fingerprints. The UK government has warned of potential delays at airports and ports, including Dover and St Pancras, when the system is first introduced.
Electronic Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)
Six months after the EES is operational, the EU will launch the Electronic Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to further tighten security. UK travelers will need to obtain an ETIAS permit before visiting most European countries.
The ETIAS application will cost £6 for travelers aged 18 to 70, while those under 18 or over 70 will need authorization but will not incur any fees.
The online form will require personal details, including name, date and place of birth, nationality, home address, email, phone number, and travel document information, along with a few questions about criminal history and travel plans. Most applications will be processed within minutes, although some may require additional documentation, extending the processing time by up to 30 days.
New Fees for Tourists in Greece
Starting in 2025, Greece will introduce new charges for tourists, including an increase in fees for those staying in hotels and villas between April and October. Visitors will pay an additional €0.50 to €5 per night compared to 2024 rates.
For example, during peak season, tourists in one- or two-star hotels will pay €2 per night in tax, while those in five-star accommodations will pay €15 per night. This means a week-long stay at a five-star hotel could see an extra €86 in taxes alone.
In winter, the fees will remain lower and unchanged. Greece is also introducing a new cruise ship levy in 2025, charging €20 for cruise passengers disembarking in Santorini or Mykonos during the peak summer months, and a €5 levy for other destinations.
Changes for Tourists in Spain
As of December 2024, Spain has implemented new check-in requirements for tourist accommodations. Hotels and rental properties now must collect additional details for all guests over 14, such as full name, gender, nationality, passport number, date of birth, home address, and contact information. This data is submitted to the Ministry of the Interior for national security reasons, which may cause delays at check-in.
Some areas of Spain are also raising tourist taxes to address overcrowding. Starting January 1, 2025, the Canary Islands will introduce an eco-tax in parts of Tenerife, although the exact amount is still to be confirmed. The Balearic Government plans to raise tourist taxes in June, July, and August.
In Barcelona, the tourist tax increased from €3.25 to €4 per night in October 2024. The city charges two separate taxes: one for the region and one for the city itself. For example, a stay in a five-star hotel could incur up to €7.50 per night in city tax, which adds up to €52.50 for a week-long stay.
