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Australians planning overseas trips are being urged to take note of major changes to international entry and visa systems, with both the United States and Europe introducing new travel procedures and fees.
The U.S. has almost doubled the cost of its Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), while Europe will begin rolling out its Entry/Exit System (EES) next week, affecting travel to 29 countries in the Schengen area.
Travel experts warn that failing to stay updated on these changes could lead to unexpected expenses or even disrupted travel plans.
“Some of the most frequented international destinations like Europe, the US, UK, China, and others are introducing significant changes to the application and entry process,” said Tom Walley, Global Managing Director of Corporate Traveller. “Travellers must not assume old systems still apply.”
🇺🇸 US Hikes ESTA Fees
The cost of applying for an ESTA, which allows tourists or business visitors to stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa, has risen from US$21 to US$40 (around AU$60).
The increase came into effect just before the U.S. government shutdown on October 1, which has already led to longer airport queues and flight delays, according to Smartraveller.
Additionally, the U.S. now requires applicants renewing non-immigrant visas to schedule interviews in their home country, meaning Australians working in the U.S. might need to return home every two years for renewal.
🇪🇺 Europe’s New Entry/Exit System (EES)
From October 12, Europe will implement its Entry/Exit System (EES) across 29 Schengen countries.
The new digital border control replaces the traditional passport stamp with biometric registration, including fingerprints and photographs.
Travellers will register their details upon first arrival, and for up to three years, they can re-enter the Schengen area using only their digital record.
Officials have warned of possible longer queues during the rollout, but say the system will improve border efficiency in the long term.
A similar system, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) — costing €20 (around AU$35) — will follow in late 2026.
🇬🇧 UK Introduces ETA
The United Kingdom now requires an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), introduced earlier this year. It costs £16 (around AU$33) and applies to short-term visits.
🌏 Asia Updates: Japan, China, and South Korea
Japan will introduce its Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA) in 2028, requiring Australians to apply online before travel.
China’s 30-day visa-free policy (introduced November 2023) runs until December 31, 2025, drawing record visitor numbers and described as a “game changer” for tourism.
South Korea has also extended its waiver for the Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) until December 31, 2025, allowing visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
However, travellers are being warned of fake visa websites exploiting the growing number of e-visa systems. “We’ve seen a ramp-up in scam sites posing as official immigration portals,” Walley cautioned.
✈️ What Travellers Should Do
Experts recommend:
Checking official government travel sites before applying for visas or e-authorisations.
Allowing extra time at airports during new system rollouts.
Staying alert for phishing or fake visa platforms.
With global travel procedures evolving rapidly, being informed could save Australians time, money, and stress before their next adventure.
