Published on
August 22, 2025
UK has issued an urgent travel advisory as France joins Austria, Switzerland, Spain, and the Netherlands in implementing new entry requirements for 2025. These changes, including updated passport validity rules, increased security measures, and new visa regulations, are set to impact UK travelers heading to the Schengen area. The advisory highlights the upcoming UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 in Switzerland, the Jubilee Holy Year in Rome, and other large-scale events across Europe, which are expected to create additional challenges for tourists. Travelers are urged to review the latest requirements to avoid disruptions and ensure a smooth trip.
In light of significant changes to entry requirements and regulations across several European countries, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued an urgent travel advisory to British citizens. France, Switzerland, Austria, Spain, and the Netherlands have all introduced updates that will impact travelers in 2025. These developments include new passport validity rules, increased security measures, and critical information about upcoming large-scale events. Here’s everything you need to know about each country’s travel guidelines, including new Schengen area entry rules, the Women’s Euro 2025, and other noteworthy events.
France: New Entry Requirements and Events
France has joined the list of countries enforcing updated travel regulations, adding to the list of travel advisories for UK citizens. As part of the Schengen area, France adheres to a set of guidelines that dictate passport and visa entry requirements. Travelers must ensure that their passports are issued within the last ten years, and that they meet specific validity criteria to enter France.
Passport Validity Requirements
The passport must be issued less than 10 years before the planned date of arrival in France. Additionally, the passport’s expiry date must be at least three months beyond the date the traveler plans to leave the Schengen area. If you renewed your passport before October 1, 2018, and it is over 10 years old, it may not be accepted. To avoid potential issues, travelers are advised to check passport validity well in advance of departure.
Visa-Free Travel
For those traveling to France for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, UK citizens do not need a visa for tourism, business meetings, or short-term training. However, if you plan to visit other Schengen countries, your stay in France counts toward the 90-day limit. Overstaying can result in a ban from entering Schengen countries for up to three years. Make sure to get passport stamps on entry and exit to ensure compliance.
Entry at French Border Control
In addition to the usual passport checks, travelers to France must show proof of accommodation (e.g., a hotel booking or an invitation from family/friends), travel insurance, a return or onward ticket, and evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of their stay.
Special Event Alert: Women’s Euro 2025
France will also be a key location for the upcoming UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 tournament. Taking place from 2 to 27 July 2025, the event will bring significant crowds to France. While it promises to be a highly anticipated event for football fans, travelers should prepare for increased demand for transportation and accommodation during this period.
Switzerland: Women’s Euro and Updated Entry Rules
Switzerland has also updated its travel requirements, particularly with the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 taking place from July 2 to 27, 2025. The tournament will span multiple cities in Switzerland, and fan zones will be set up for public viewing. With busy transport networks expected, travelers should plan for possible delays and crowded conditions around match times.
Passport Validity and Travel Insurance
As with other Schengen countries, UK citizens traveling to Switzerland must ensure their passport is issued within 10 years of their arrival date and has at least three months of validity beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen area. It is also strongly advised to obtain travel insurance that covers all potential risks, including emergency medical expenses and trip cancellations.
Travel Insurance and Accommodation
Proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and sufficient funds for your stay may be required at the Swiss border. Be sure to check all documentation before departure to avoid any last-minute issues.
Austria: Updated Entry Requirements and Visa Guidelines
Austria, another Schengen area country, has recently updated its entry requirements for UK travelers. As part of the 2025 changes, travelers must meet stricter passport validity guidelines. Passports must be issued within the last 10 years, and they must also have an expiry date that is at least three months after the departure date from Austria.
Passport Stamps and Visa-Free Travel
UK citizens can travel to Austria visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, family visits, or short-term business. However, if you are traveling to multiple Schengen countries, you must ensure your total stay does not exceed the 90-day limit. Border guards will check your passport for entry and exit stamps, and if you don’t have them, you’ll need to provide evidence of when you entered or left the Schengen area (e.g., boarding passes or tickets).
Proof of Funds and Accommodation
Upon entry to Austria, travelers may be asked to show evidence of accommodation, sufficient funds, a return or onward ticket, and travel insurance. Be prepared to provide these documents to avoid delays at border control.
New Schengen Entry System in 2025
Starting in October 2025, the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) will be introduced. This will require travelers to provide biometric data, including fingerprints and photos, when entering or exiting the Schengen area. Those entering Austria from the UK will need to comply with this new process, which may cause slight delays at border crossings.
Spain: Entry Requirements and Important Event Alerts
Spain has updated its travel guidelines to align with Schengen area rules. Travelers from the UK must adhere to passport validity requirements, including ensuring that their passport is issued less than 10 years before arrival and valid for at least three months after the planned date of departure from Spain.
Travel Insurance and Border Requirements
As part of the entry requirements, travelers may need to show proof of accommodation, a return ticket, and sufficient funds to cover the cost of their stay. Travel insurance is also strongly recommended, covering emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen costs.
Netherlands: Changes to Entry and Passport Validity Rules
As part of the wider Schengen area update, the Netherlands has announced new entry requirements for UK citizens traveling in 2025. UK travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their planned departure date from the Schengen area, and the passport must be issued within the last 10 years.
Travel Insurance and Accommodation Proof
The Dutch authorities may ask travelers to provide evidence of accommodation, sufficient funds, and return or onward tickets. Travel insurance that covers health and emergency expenses is recommended for all travelers to the Netherlands.
Important Change: New Entry/Exit System in October 2025
The Netherlands will implement the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025. This system will involve biometric data collection, including fingerprints and photographs. The new procedure will require more time at border checks, so travelers are advised to prepare for longer waits at customs and immigration.
Travel Advisory Key Takeaways
In summary, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued a critical travel advisory for UK citizens traveling to France, Switzerland, Austria, Spain, and the Netherlands, as each of these countries has updated its entry requirements and rules. Whether it’s the introduction of new passport validity standards, the Women’s Euro 2025 tournament in Switzerland, or the Holy Year celebrations in Italy, travelers are urged to stay informed and take appropriate measures to ensure a smooth trip.
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport meets the new criteria for entry into Schengen area countries, including a minimum of three months’ validity beyond your planned departure.Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to secure travel insurance that covers emergency situations, including medical expenses and trip cancellations.Event Planning: Be prepared for significant events like the Women’s Euro 2025 in Switzerland and the Holy Year celebrations in Rome, as these will affect travel conditions and availability of accommodations.New Schengen Entry System: Starting in October 2025, expect delays at border crossings as new biometric data collection procedures are introduced for all travelers entering and exiting Schengen area countries.
UK has issued an urgent travel advisory as France joins Austria, Switzerland, Spain, and Netherlands in implementing new Schengen area entry regulations for 2025, due to updated passport requirements and the impact of major events like the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. These changes are expected to affect UK travelers, making it essential to stay informed on the latest entry rules.
By staying informed and ensuring all travel documents and requirements are in order, UK travelers can avoid disruptions and enjoy their time in these popular European destinations.
