Travel tips for 2026

For 2026, the most significant travel changes involve Europe's ETIAS (requiring digital authorization for visa-exempt visitors from late 2026), the new biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) for Europe, and increasing adoption of digital arrival cards in Asia, replacing paper forms.

Before traveling abroad, U.S. citizens must renew passports (check 6-month validity), apply for new electronic authorizations like the UK's ETA or Europe's ETIAS, register trips via the State Department's STEP, and research specific destination entry rules, health advisories, required visas, and travel insurance, with particular attention to new EU/UK digital entry systems launching in 2026. 

Europe (Schengen Area)

• ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System):     Starting late 2026, citizens of visa-exempt countries (such as the U.S.) will need to apply for this digital travel authorization before visiting the 30 participating countries.
• EES (Entry/Exit System): This new system replaces manual passport stamping with biometric checks for non-EU citizens, with full implementation expected by April 2026, aiming for faster processing. 

Asia & Beyond

• Digital  Arrival Cards: Systems like Singapore's and South Korea's will become standard, requiring online forms before travel.
• Georgia: Tourists will need mandatory insurance starting January 1, 2026.
• Ghana: An e-Visa system is planned for early 2026.
• Uzbekistan: Offering visa-free entry for U.S. passport holders. 

Key Actions for Travelers

• Check Your Passport: Ensure it's valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Europe.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on official government travel websites (like travel.state.gov) and destination-specific sites as policies evolve. 

For more information, visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html.