Published on
October 14, 2025
Travelers to Europe should get ready for the new European Entry/Exit System (EES), which now affects Spain in addition to Denmark, Sweden, Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, and Lithuania, as Australia issues a travel advisory for autumn. Travelers must comply with biometric registration at border control, which includes fingerprints and photos, according to the advisory. The advisory urges travelers to be vigilant and heed the advice of local authorities to ensure a safe journey through these European destinations. In addition to this procedural change, it addresses increased safety concerns, including heightened terrorism threats, petty crime risks, and potential natural hazards.
As autumn approaches, travelers planning to visit Europe must stay informed about the recent changes to border entry procedures and escalating safety concerns in key destinations. With the implementation of the European Entry/Exit System (EES), travelers will need to adjust to new regulations requiring border registration, fingerprinting, and photos. Along with this procedural shift, heightened safety warnings and risk assessments across several European countries have prompted Australia to release an urgent travel advisory. From terrorism threats to petty crime, and natural disasters, these advisories aim to keep travelers safe while they explore the wonders of Europe.
Spain: New Entry/Exit System and Heightened Security Alerts
Spain, a top destination for travelers seeking rich culture, history, and beautiful landscapes, has implemented the European Entry/Exit System for all non-EU nationals. Travelers visiting Spain this autumn will be required to register at the border and provide biometric data, including fingerprints and photos. This system is designed to streamline entry procedures and enhance border security, but travelers should be prepared for longer wait times as a result of these new measures.
Beyond the procedural changes, Spain also presents increased safety concerns. The country is currently under a high terrorism alert, with authorities warning that attacks could be indiscriminate and could occur at any time and in any place. Visitors are advised to remain vigilant in crowded areas, especially around tourist hotspots such as beaches, landmarks, and public transport. The risk of petty crime, including pickpocketing, remains significant, particularly in major cities like Barcelona and Ibiza. Travelers are urged to keep an eye on their belongings and avoid displaying valuables openly.
In addition to security concerns, Spain is also vulnerable to natural disasters. Earthquakes, storms, and forest fires can impact various regions, and travelers are encouraged to monitor local news and stay informed of any natural events that may affect their travels.
Key Takeaways for Spain:
Entry/Exit System: Border registration and biometric data collection.Safety Alert: High terrorism threat level.Risks: Petty crime, natural disasters.Denmark: Substantial Terror Threat and New Entry/Exit Procedures
Denmark is also affected by the European Entry/Exit System. Starting October 12, travelers from outside the EU will need to register at the border and undergo biometric data collection. These additional steps are aimed at improving border security, but travelers should expect longer waiting times and possible delays.
Denmark’s terrorism threat level is set at “significant”, which means that attacks could happen at any time and in any location. Major public spaces, tourist sites, and transport hubs are considered potential targets. Travelers should exercise caution and remain alert in these areas, following all official safety advice.
Pickpocketing is a common issue in crowded areas, particularly in tourist locations like Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens and Nyhavn. Additionally, gang-related violence and civil unrest can occur in certain districts, especially in the Nørrebro and Christiania neighborhoods. It is recommended that travelers stay aware of their surroundings and avoid high-risk areas.
Key Takeaways for Denmark:
Entry/Exit System: Biometric registration at the border.Safety Alert: Significant domestic terrorism threat.Risks: Petty crime and gang-related violence.Sweden: Elevated Threat and Winter Travel Considerations
In Sweden, the Entry/Exit System has been implemented to enhance border security for all non-EU nationals, including travelers from Australia. As part of the new regulations, visitors will need to undergo biometric registration at border control points, which may cause longer processing times.
Sweden’s domestic terrorism threat level is currently “elevated”, which means an attack could still occur, but the likelihood is lower than in countries with higher threat levels. Travelers should remain vigilant in busy public spaces, particularly in Stockholm and Gothenburg, and be aware of any official security alerts or warnings.
Sweden’s harsh winter conditions also pose challenges for travelers, particularly those visiting remote areas or planning outdoor activities such as skiing. Severe weather, including snowstorms and freezing temperatures, can disrupt transportation and public services. Travelers should prepare for these conditions by checking weather forecasts regularly and adjusting their travel plans accordingly.
Key Takeaways for Sweden:
Entry/Exit System: Biometric data collection at the border.Safety Alert: Elevated terrorism threat level.Risks: Petty crime and severe winter weather disruptions.Germany: Ongoing Security Threat and Border Changes
Germany continues to face significant security risks, with an ongoing terrorism threat affecting public spaces, transportation hubs, and popular tourist areas. The country has implemented the Entry/Exit System for non-EU nationals, which requires travelers to register at the border and provide biometric data for security purposes.
Recent years have seen several attacks in Germany, including incidents involving vehicles and knives. While terrorism is not a frequent occurrence, the government has warned that attacks can occur at any time. Visitors should remain alert and report any suspicious activity to authorities.
Petty crime, particularly pickpocketing and theft from cars and trains, is also a concern in major cities like Berlin and Munich. Travelers should secure their belongings and exercise caution when in crowded areas. In addition, racial harassment has been reported in some parts of Germany, particularly in areas with a higher foreign population, so travelers should stay vigilant and be aware of their surroundings.
Key Takeaways for Germany:
Entry/Exit System: Border registration and biometric data collection.Safety Alert: Ongoing terrorism threat.Risks: Pickpocketing, racial harassment, and security concerns.Netherlands: Substantial Terrorism Threat and Petty Crime Risks
The Netherlands has introduced the Entry/Exit System, requiring all non-EU nationals, including travelers, to undergo biometric registration at the border. As the system rolls out, travelers should be prepared for delays at border control points as the new procedures are fully implemented.
The national terrorism threat level in the Netherlands is classified as “substantial”, indicating that terrorist attacks are possible but not imminent. Major public areas and tourist destinations are considered potential targets for attacks, so visitors should remain vigilant and follow official guidance.
Pickpocketing is a common issue in cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, especially in busy tourist spots and on public transport. Travelers should take extra precautions with their belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables in easily accessible places.
Key Takeaways for the Netherlands:
Entry/Exit System: Biometric registration at the border.Safety Alert: Substantial terrorism threat.Risks: Pickpocketing and drink spiking.Austria: Natural Hazards and Security Threats
Austria is also affected by the Entry/Exit System, and travelers should be prepared for the new border registration process, which includes fingerprinting and photographs. These measures are part of the broader European initiative to enhance border security for non-EU nationals.
Austria’s terrorism threat remains a concern, particularly in major cities like Vienna and Salzburg. Travelers should be cautious when visiting public areas and stay alert to any official security warnings. In addition to security risks, Austria’s alpine regions are prone to natural hazards, including avalanches, flash floods, and mudslides, particularly during the winter months. Travelers planning to engage in outdoor activities should check weather reports and adhere to local guidelines.
Key Takeaways for Austria:
Entry/Exit System: Biometric border checks.Safety Alert: Ongoing terrorism threat.Risks: Natural hazards like avalanches and flash floods.Belgium: Serious Terror Threat and Travel Disruptions
Belgium, home to some of Europe’s most important cultural and political centers, has implemented the Entry/Exit System, requiring travelers to undergo biometric registration. The country continues to face a serious terrorism threat, which means attacks could occur in public spaces, particularly in areas frequented by tourists, such as Brussels’ Grand Place or Antwerp’s Diamond District.
Petty crime, particularly pickpocketing, is common in crowded areas, and travelers should remain cautious in tourist hotspots and public transportation systems. Demonstrations and large international events may lead to transport disruptions, so travelers should be prepared for potential delays.
Key Takeaways for Belgium:
Entry/Exit System: Biometric registration required.Safety Alert: Serious terrorism threat.Risks: Petty crime and transport disruptions.Lithuania: Border Check Changes and Petty Crime Risks
Lithuania, while less affected by terrorism compared to other European countries, still requires travelers to comply with the Entry/Exit System. Border checks, particularly along the country’s borders with Poland, are now stricter, and travelers should remain informed about any changes to entry conditions.
Petty crime, including pickpocketing, can occur in busy urban areas and on public transport, particularly in Vilnius. Travelers should be mindful of their personal belongings and exercise caution when using public transport or visiting crowded tourist sites.
Key Takeaways for Lithuania:
Entry/Exit System: Biometric data collection at borders.Safety Alert: General vigilance advised.Risks: Petty crime and drink spiking.
Australia has issued a travel advisory for autumn, urging travelers to be aware of the new European Entry/Exit System (EES) regulations and heightened safety concerns, including terrorism threats and petty crime risks, across key European destinations like Spain, Denmark, Sweden, and more.
As travelers prepare for autumn trips to Europe, they must navigate the new Entry/Exit System regulations and remain vigilant about the increased safety concerns in many European destinations. From Spain to Lithuania, every country in the Schengen Area now presents new challenges, ranging from border delays to heightened terrorism threats and petty crime. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, travelers can enjoy their European experience while minimizing risks.
