Published on
September 22, 2025
Netherlands joins Hungary, Ireland, France, Latvia, Spain, and more as the UK updates its travel advisory, marking important changes in Schengen entry requirements and addressing growing safety concerns. With the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) set for October 2025, which will require biometric data collection at borders, and rising security threats across key European destinations, UK travelers are urged to stay informed and prepared for potential disruptions in their travel plans.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued updated travel advice for various European countries, following changes to Schengen entry requirements, rising security concerns, and national defense activities. These updates come amid growing concerns about both the logistical challenges and the heightened security risks that travelers may face when visiting countries like the Netherlands, France, Latvia, Ireland, and others. Below, we explore the latest developments in the travel landscape for each country.
Netherlands
The Netherlands has issued new entry requirements and border procedures that may impact travelers heading to the Schengen Area. Starting from October 12, 2025, travelers will need to comply with the Entry/Exit System (EES), which will collect biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) upon entry and exit from the Schengen area. The system aims to streamline border checks but will likely cause delays at entry points, including ports and airports, as travelers will need a few extra minutes to complete the process.
Key Entry Requirements:Passport Validity: Travelers must ensure their passport is issued less than 10 years ago and remains valid for at least 3 months after their intended departure from the Schengen Area.Visa-Free Travel: UK citizens can travel visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, or short-term studies.New EES Process: Starting in October 2025, fingerprints and photos will be taken when entering or leaving the Schengen Area, impacting entry times.
Make sure to verify the validity of your travel documents well ahead of time, as the Netherlands’ strict entry requirements may result in denied entry for those who do not comply with the regulations. It’s also important to get your passport stamped on entry and exit to avoid any complications regarding the 90-day visa-free limit.
Hungary
Hungary, a vital Schengen member, has also issued updates concerning passport validity, visa requirements, and the looming Entry/Exit System (EES) that will apply to all Schengen countries starting in October 2025. With its increasing importance in EU tourism, Hungary is drawing attention for its unique blend of cultural landmarks and natural beauty.
Key Travel Information:Passport Validity: Travelers must ensure that their passport was issued within the last 10 years and has at least 3 months of validity after departure from the Schengen Area.Visa-Free Travel: UK nationals are permitted to stay up to 90 days in Hungary without a visa within a 180-day period, provided the conditions outlined for Schengen travel are met.Border Control Updates: With the introduction of the EES in 2025, travelers will need to submit biometric data (photo and fingerprints) at borders, which could lead to slightly longer wait times at Hungarian entry points.
In addition to these changes, visitors must adhere to new customs and security regulations, particularly when arriving from other Schengen countries. Hungary’s frequent industrial actions and protests also have the potential to disrupt travel, especially in major cities like Budapest.
Ireland
Ireland, although part of the EU, is not included in the Schengen Area, meaning it will not be directly impacted by the EES system coming into effect next year. However, UK travelers to Ireland should note the differences in entry and identification requirements compared to Schengen nations.
Key Entry Requirements:No Passport Requirement: British nationals can travel to Ireland without a passport under the Common Travel Area (CTA) rules. However, airlines or ferries may require some form of photo identification, such as a national ID or a photocard driving license.Visa-Free Entry: UK citizens do not need a visa to enter Ireland for any length of stay, as the two countries maintain open border arrangements.Customs and Security: There are strict customs rules in place, and travelers should be aware of the goods they are bringing into the country to avoid penalties.
Though not part of Schengen, Ireland is still a popular destination for UK travelers. While no major changes are expected with regards to border control, travelers should ensure their personal documents are up to date and ready for potential checks at entry points.
France
France, one of the most frequented tourist destinations in Europe, continues to face challenges with terrorism threats, security measures, and industrial action. The UK Foreign Office has raised concerns about the elevated risks of terrorism and street crime, especially in urban centers like Paris.
Key Travel Information:Terrorism Risk: France remains a high-risk destination for terrorist attacks, particularly in public transport hubs, tourist hotspots, and cultural venues. Travelers should remain vigilant and stay informed of the latest local security updates.Pickpocketing and Theft: Petty crime remains a significant issue in tourist-heavy areas, especially in Paris Metro, RER stations, and major tourist attractions. Travelers are advised to safeguard their personal belongings.Industrial Action: France often experiences strikes and demonstrations that can disrupt transport and local services. Travelers should stay up to date on local news and consult their transport provider for real-time information on potential delays.Cultural Laws: France has stringent laws about face-covering and drug use, and visitors should adhere to these regulations to avoid fines or legal trouble.
In addition to safety concerns, France is experiencing an uptick in public demonstrations which could impact travel plans. Travelers should ensure they are prepared for potential disruptions, especially when moving between cities or taking connecting flights.
Latvia
Latvia’s national defense exercise, Namejs 2025, has raised significant concerns for travelers, particularly with respect to military operations and potential disruptions on the roads. The military exercise, which ran from September 2nd to October 8th, involved movements of military personnel, vehicles, and aircraft, creating delays in travel.
Key Travel Information:Military Operations: Expect delays on major roads and possible disruptions to public transport as Latvia’s military conducts live-fire exercises in training areas.Public Safety: While the exercise is designed for defense purposes, travelers should be aware of any advisories and plan their routes accordingly.Travel Insurance: Given the heightened security activities, it is advisable to research and purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover potential travel interruptions.
As the defense exercise continues into October, visitors should stay aware of potential military movements or exercises near major cities like Riga.
Spain
Spain, a popular Mediterranean destination, is also subject to the Schengen Area entry rules and will be affected by the new Entry/Exit System (EES) that launches in October 2025. Spain has long been a primary gateway for UK travelers to Europe, and recent updates indicate increased travel disruptions due to both terrorism threats and natural disasters such as wildfires.
Key Travel Information:Visa-Free Entry: UK nationals can stay in Spain for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa.Border Control Updates: As part of the Schengen Area, Spain will be subject to the EES requirements, which will involve biometric data collection at the border.Travel Disruptions: Spain has experienced increasing wildfires, particularly during summer months, which have led to temporary flight cancellations or route changes. Travelers should ensure they check for updates on wildfire alerts and potential airspace disruptions.
In addition to the logistical concerns, travelers should also be mindful of the terrorism threat in Spain, particularly in Barcelona and Madrid, where popular tourist areas could be targets for attacks. Staying informed and vigilant is paramount.
Denmark
Denmark, like other Schengen countries, has strict passport and visa regulations for UK travelers. However, Denmark also maintains a unique Schengen visa-free arrangement with neighboring non-EU countries like Greenland and the Faroe Islands, which makes it an attractive destination for travelers seeking to explore both urban and remote areas.
Key Travel Information:Passport Validity: Denmark adheres to Schengen rules, meaning travelers must have a passport issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months after departure from the Schengen Area.Visa-Free Travel: UK nationals can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa, provided they comply with Schengen regulations.Entry Requirements for Greenland & Faroe Islands: While Greenland and the Faroe Islands are part of Denmark, travelers must note that these areas have separate entry requirements. Visas are not required for tourism, but a residence permit is needed for stays longer than 90 days.
Denmark is also gearing up for the Entry/Exit System (EES), which will collect biometric data at the border starting in October 2025. This may cause minor delays, particularly at major airports like Copenhagen Kastrup Airport.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued detailed advisories to ensure travelers are fully informed of potential challenges they may face while visiting Schengen Area countries. From new visa and passport requirements in the Netherlands and Hungary, to terrorism risks and military exercises in France and Latvia, it is clear that travelers need to be proactive in their planning.
By staying informed and ensuring that travel documents meet all necessary requirements, travelers can reduce the likelihood of complications while abroad. It is also recommended to consider travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation, trip cancellations, and unexpected delays due to national security events, such as military operations and natural disasters.
Netherlands joins Hungary, Ireland, France, Latvia, Spain, and other European countries as the UK updates its travel advisory, prompted by the upcoming Schengen entry requirements—including biometric data collection starting in October 2025—and growing regional safety concerns.
The new Entry/Exit System (EES), set to launch in October 2025, is also a significant change that could impact border entry times in all Schengen Area countries. Make sure to allow for extra time at border crossings and be prepared for biometric data collection.
