Published on
August 17, 2025
UK has issued a new travel advisory for Poland, Netherlands, Hungary, Portugal, and Iceland in compliance with the new Schengen entry regulations set to take effect this fall. This advisory comes in response to the European Union’s implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES), which will require travelers to provide biometric data and meet stricter passport validity requirements. The UK government aims to ensure that its citizens are fully aware of the upcoming changes to entry protocols across these key Schengen countries.
As the world adapts to shifting geopolitical landscapes and evolving travel regulations, the UK government has issued a new travel advisory through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) concerning Schengen Area entry requirements. This advisory affects several European nations, including Poland, the Netherlands, Hungary, Portugal, and Iceland. Each country, while part of the Schengen Area, is subject to varying travel and entry protocols, particularly as new rules and regulations come into effect starting in 2025.
This advisory comes at a critical time when both safety concerns and regulatory changes impact how international travelers plan their trips across Europe. From changes in passport validity to the introduction of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), travelers must be aware of how these rules could affect their journeys. Here’s a comprehensive look at the updated entry requirements and travel guidelines for these key Schengen nations.
Poland: Border Safety and Entry Protocols
Poland, positioned at the heart of Europe, has updated its travel protocols amid ongoing regional challenges. The UK government, through the FCDO, has included Poland in its latest advisory due to a combination of safety concerns and Schengen entry requirement changes.
Safety Concerns
Recent Russian military activity near the Ukrainian-Polish border has raised concerns about regional security. While access to the border is restricted, travelers should remain informed about potential changes to safety advisories. These military strikes, although not directly targeting Poland, have affected access to certain border areas, which could complicate travel near the region.
Entry Requirements for Poland
Travelers heading to Poland must adhere to the Schengen Area’s stringent passport validity requirements. The UK government, via the FCDO, has clarified that for Polish entry, your passport must meet the following criteria:
Date of Issue: Less than 10 years before your arrival date.Expiry Date: At least 3 months beyond your departure from Poland or any other Schengen area country.
Dual nationals (Polish-British) must note that Poland requires entry and exit through Polish passports or national identity cards. There have been instances where Polish border authorities allowed dual nationals to enter using their British passports but subsequently denied departure on the same passport. Travelers should ensure that all documentation is up to date and aligned with Polish national requirements.
Netherlands: Schengen Area Protocols and Visa Requirements
The Netherlands, renowned for its cultural landmarks and vibrant cities, is another country included in the UK’s revised travel advisory. With new Schengen entry rules on the horizon, travelers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the evolving visa and passport policies.
New Schengen Entry Requirements
Starting from October 12, 2025, the European Union will implement the Entry/Exit System (EES). This system mandates that travelers entering and exiting the Schengen Area will need to have their fingerprints and photographs taken. Additionally, the Schengen Border Code’s questions will be mandatory for all short-stay travelers. This new system will introduce additional processing time at borders, so travelers should be prepared for longer waits.
Entry Requirements for the Netherlands
For British citizens traveling to the Netherlands, the Schengen Area’s entry requirements apply:
Passport Validity: The passport should be issued within the last 10 years and must have an expiry date at least 3 months beyond the planned date of departure from the Schengen area.Visa Requirements: British citizens can travel without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to tourism, business, cultural, and sporting events, or short-term studies. If visiting other Schengen countries, ensure that your entire visit stays within the 90-day limit.
If you overstay the 90-day period, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to three years. It’s crucial to ensure that entry and exit stamps are present in your passport to avoid complications when leaving the Schengen zone.
Iceland: Volcanic Risks and Travel Protocols
Iceland, known for its unique landscapes and geothermal activity, has made headlines recently due to ongoing volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula. These eruptions have led to the release of significant volcanic ash, raising concerns about air quality and travel disruptions in the region. Despite these environmental factors, Iceland remains a key part of the UK’s updated travel advisory.
Volcanic Eruptions and Travel Disruptions
Although the eruptions have not directly affected major tourist destinations, travelers are urged to check local conditions, as ash clouds could potentially impact flights. Air quality and visibility may be affected in certain areas, leading to potential flight delays or cancellations. Travelers should monitor travel advisories and flight statuses closely.
Entry Requirements for Iceland
For British citizens visiting Iceland, the travel guidelines are largely aligned with the rest of the Schengen Area:
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport was issued less than 10 years before your arrival and that it remains valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from Iceland.Visa Requirements: British citizens can travel to Iceland for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without requiring a visa. This is applicable for tourism, business, and short-term studies.New Schengen Entry System: Like the Netherlands, travelers entering Iceland after October 12, 2025, will be required to participate in the EES, including biometric data collection and border questioning.
As with other Schengen countries, border guards may request additional documentation such as proof of accommodation, a return ticket, and sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Hungary: Updated Visa and Entry Procedures
Hungary, a country rich in history and culture, is another focus of the UK’s latest travel advisory. Similar to the other Schengen countries, Hungary adheres to the updated entry protocols that will be enforced by the European Union starting in October 2025.
Visa and Entry Requirements for Hungary
For British nationals, the entry requirements for Hungary are consistent with the rest of the Schengen Area:
Passport Validity: Your passport must be issued within 10 years of your arrival date and valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area.Visa-Free Travel: British citizens can travel to Hungary for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. This applies to tourism, business, and cultural visits.Additional Documentation: Hungary may require travelers to provide proof of accommodation, sufficient funds for the duration of the stay, and return or onward tickets. Ensure your passport is stamped at both entry and exit points, as border authorities will scrutinize your travel history to ensure you haven’t overstayed the 90-day limit.
As with other Schengen countries, travelers should be aware of the upcoming EES changes and prepare for extra time at the border for biometric data collection.
Portugal: Wildfire Risks and Entry Guidelines
Portugal, known for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and Mediterranean coastline, has been added to the UK’s travel advisory list, particularly due to the risk of wildfires in the summer months. The advisory underscores the importance of awareness and preparation, especially during peak wildfire season from April to October.
Wildfire Risks
During the summer months, Portugal experiences a high risk of wildfires, particularly in rural and forested areas. The UK government urges travelers to be aware of local fire conditions and follow safety advice issued by local authorities. In the event of a wildfire, certain regions may be inaccessible, and there could be disruptions to local transport and services.
Entry Requirements for Portugal
As a Schengen country, Portugal follows the same passport and visa protocols as other nations within the zone:
Passport Validity: Your passport must be issued within the last 10 years and should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure from the Schengen area.Visa-Free Travel: British citizens can visit Portugal for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without requiring a visa. This applies to tourism, business, family visits, and short-term educational programs.Documentation at Border: Travelers may be required to present proof of accommodation, sufficient financial means for their stay, and a return or onward ticket. Passport stamps are essential for keeping track of the 90-day stay limit.
With Portugal being part of the Schengen zone, travelers should also be prepared for the upcoming EES implementation and the added processing times at border controls.
As the European Union prepares to implement new border control measures through the Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025, travelers to Poland, the Netherlands, Iceland, Hungary, and Portugal must familiarize themselves with updated entry requirements. While these countries share common regulations for Schengen Area travel, each presents unique safety and travel considerations that should be taken into account.
The UK FCDO strongly advises travelers to ensure they meet all entry requirements, especially as the Schengen Area introduces new protocols. Travelers should also be aware of the upcoming EES and its impact on border wait times.
The UK has issued a new travel advisory for Poland, Netherlands, Hungary, Portugal, and Iceland in compliance with the upcoming Schengen entry regulations this fall. These changes, including biometric data collection and stricter passport requirements, are set to take effect in October 2025 as part of the European Union’s updated border control measures.
By staying informed and prepared, travelers can ensure that their trips to these popular Schengen countries are both smooth and safe.
