Headed to Europe? You need to read this.

May 26

Hey Sunshine!

If you are going to Europe this summer or anytime soon, there are some changes you should know about that I have been meaning to fill you in on.
1-If you are flying to the UK at all you will need an ETIAS (An electronic travel authorization).

-This needs to be applied for before you travel. It is not something you can apply for upon landing.

-Every person traveling needs one, including kids.

-It is valid for 2 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

-It is £20.

-Here's the official site (It is best used from their app.) Don't get scammed by a processor page like my husband who paid $120 US. Eeks.

2-If you are traveling to any countries in the Schengen region of Europe (includes 29 countries), a new system is in place.

-The system is called the EES (Entry/Exit System)

-The system will-collect your passport info and entry and exit dates.

-First visit: 4 fingerprints + facial scan capture. Subsequent visits: quick verification scan. Exits logged the same way.

-You do not apply for this ahead of time. (The authorization like the UK's has yet to roll out.)

Why does this matter? Wait lines have been long. It is a new system and so all travelers are “new” which requires a longer process. Some major cities are reporting 2-3 hour wait times!
If you have a connection: Travelers are reporting missing flights, so at least for now and the busy summer season, better be safe than sorry and switch to a long layover in all Schengen Cities of at least three hours.