Travel in 2025: in which countries and how will the rules for tourists change this year?
Table of contents

New requirements for tourists have come into effect in many countries around the world since January 1, 2025. Find out which countries have simplified the rules, which countries have become more difficult to travel to, and where the new requirements are still in the approval stage
In 2025, your travels around the world will require a little more planning as many countries have introduced new entry regulations. From electronic entry permits to changes to the visa application process. Useful information for tourists in 2025 and beyond.
Israel
Starting January 1, 2025, Israel will launch an electronic travel authorization system, known as ETA-IL.
This system requires citizens of 99 visa-free countries to apply for an electronic authorization before traveling to Israel. The system works similarly to the ESTA in the US and the eTA in Canada. Applications must be submitted online a few days before departure. The initiative aims to modernize entry procedures and strengthen border security.
Thailand
Starting January 1, 2025, Thailand’s electronic visa system (e-Visa) will be available worldwide.
The Thailand e-Visa is a special entry permit that allows you to visit the country under a simplified system, without having to obtain a visa at the kingdom’s embassy or consulate.
An e-Visa is usually available for purposes such as tourism, business, medical treatment, or visiting friends and family. If you wish to visit the country for any other purpose, you must apply for the appropriate visa at the embassy in your home country.
Thailand is also working on an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system to complement its e-Visa platform. Once it is operational, travelers from visa-free countries will need prior authorization to enter. This system will enhance security and simplify entry procedures.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system will be fully operational in spring 2025. However, the first phase of the authorization will begin on January 8, 2025.
- From 8 January 2025, non-European citizens from visa-free countries must obtain an ETA.
- By 2 April 2025, this requirement will also apply to European citizens.
The ETA is part of the UK’s plan to digitise its borders by the end of 2025. The system is digitally linked to travellers’ passports and provides more robust security checks.
To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.
Cambodia
From January 1, 2025, Cambodia will reduce the cost of its e-visas. This move is aimed at attracting the maximum number of visitors.
Tourist e-visas will cost $30 instead of the previous $36, and the price of a business visa will be reduced from $42 to $35. This move supports Cambodia’s goal of reviving the tourism sector.
Tunisia
Tunisia tightened entry requirements in 2025. From January 1, all visitors, including European citizens, must present a passport valid for at least three months.
That is, from now on, EU citizens must have a passport to enter Tunisia. Previously, representatives of states were only allowed to travel with a national identity card for organized tourist trips.
Namibia
From 1 April 2025, Namibia will introduce visa requirements for citizens of 31 countries, including France, Belgium, Canada and the United States, which previously enjoyed visa-free travel. Visitors must apply for a visa online before arrival.
European Union
Two important systems in the EU are expected to finally be operational in 2025:
- EES – a biometric entry-exit system that will replace the physical stamping of passports of citizens of countries eligible for visa-free travel to the EU during passport control. The EES will record certain information about foreigners entering the EU: passport data and biometric information (fingerprints and a photo of their face). The system will make it much easier to identify people who have overstayed their stay in the Schengen area.
- ETIAS – a few months after the launch of the EES, the ETIAS system should also be operational. It will require non-EU citizens who are eligible for visa-free travel to the region to register, pay a visa fee of €7 and obtain a permit before traveling. This requirement applies to persons aged 18 to 70.
The document allows a stay in the EU and Schengen area for 90 days.
Once approved, the traveler does not need to re-register with the ETIAS system for three years.
Belarus
In 2025, citizens of 67 countries will be able to apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) to travel to Belarus. This will simplify the entry procedure and improve the travel experience in the country.
It is expected that from March 20, 2025, representatives of certain countries will be able to apply for a digital visa to visit the country under a simplified system.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka will extend its visa-free travel program for travelers from 38 countries. The initiative aims to boost tourism by attracting more foreign visitors.
To stay up-to-date with the latest news from the world of travel and migration, read the “News” section on the Visit World portal.
Reminder! The EU has announced that major changes to travel rules and migration legislation are planned for 2025. Expansion of the Schengen area, new tourist taxes and stricter rules for obtaining residence permits. We have already told you what changes and which categories of foreigners can expect in 2025.
Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld
To ensure a safe move to a new country, I advise you to consult a specialist. My colleagues, qualified specialists with a legal education, will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration.
Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:
Travel guide for 200 countries;
Legal advice from a local specialist on visa and migration issues;
Travel insurance around the world (please select the country of interest and citizenship to receive services);
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We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information, so if you notice any errors or inconsistencies, please contact our hotline.
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