Published on
October 18, 2025
Germany joins UK, Italy, and Australia have joined forces in issuing travel advisories for Estonia amid concerns over the newly implemented Entry/Exit System and the ongoing border tensions with Russia. These nations are advising their citizens to exercise heightened caution due to the extended border processing times, potential disruptions at key crossing points, and the increased risk of political instability in the region. Travelers are urged to stay informed about changing conditions at the borders, especially near Russia, and to be aware of the new security measures affecting entry and exit across the Schengen Area.
In recent developments, Estonia has become the focus of international attention as several countries, including Germany, the UK, Italy, and Australia, have issued travel advisories for the Baltic nation. These advisories are primarily driven by concerns regarding Estonia’s new entry/exit system and heightened border security, particularly its border crossings with Russia. With a rapidly changing political and security landscape, these countries are advising their citizens to exercise increased caution when traveling to Estonia.
Germany’s Travel Advisory for Estonia
Germany’s Federal Foreign Office has issued a travel advisory for Estonia due to the country’s ongoing political and security risks. Specifically, the German government is concerned about the new entry/exit system being implemented within the Schengen Area, which affects travelers, including German citizens, traveling to Estonia.
Since Estonia is part of the Schengen Zone, the implementation of the new European Union Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12, 2025, has caused significant changes in the way travelers enter and exit the country. The new system requires all non-EU nationals to provide biometric data (including fingerprints and photographs) when entering or exiting the Schengen Area. Although this system promises enhanced security, it has also led to longer waiting times at border crossings, causing considerable disruptions for travelers.
Moreover, travelers from Germany are being cautioned about the unpredictable nature of border conditions, especially at the border crossings with Russia. Estonia shares a border with Russia, and the security situation in this region has become increasingly volatile. German authorities have highlighted the risks associated with traveling near the Russian-Estonian border, which may face sudden closures or restrictions at short notice. The most vulnerable areas are the Narva and Koidula border crossings, where long queues and delays have been reported.
Key Travel Risks for German Citizens:
Increased border waiting times due to the new Entry/Exit System.
Potential border closures or travel restrictions between Estonia and Russia.
Safety concerns in areas near the Russian-Estonian border.
Travel documents should be in order to comply with the new Schengen rules.
UK’s Travel Advisory for Estonia
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has also issued a similar travel advisory for Estonia. In addition to concerns over the new entry/exit system, the FCDO’s advisory primarily focuses on the broader security situation in Estonia, which has been impacted by the geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe.
According to the UK’s advisory, there is a heightened threat of terrorism in Estonia due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with some fears that extremist elements may target UK nationals in the region. While there has been no recent history of terrorism within Estonia itself, the UK government advises British nationals to remain vigilant and to avoid areas near the Russian border where security may be more unpredictable.
The travel advisory also underscores Estonia’s strategic location near conflict zones, which increases the likelihood of sudden changes in the political and security landscape. The UK government urges its citizens to monitor the situation closely and heed any warnings issued by local authorities. Furthermore, the FCDO recommends registering travel plans through the “DOVESIAMONELMONDO” platform for better tracking and emergency communication.
Key Travel Risks for UK Citizens:
Increased risk of terrorism due to the geopolitical situation in the region.
Security risks in areas near the Russian-Estonian border.
Travel advisories for specific border crossings and entry points.
Italy’s Travel Advisory for Estonia
Italy has joined the ranks of other nations, advising its citizens to reconsider non-essential travel to Estonia. The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has echoed concerns regarding the new EU Entry/Exit System, which affects Italian citizens traveling to Estonia. Travelers are warned about the possible delays caused by the biometric registration process, which may lead to long waiting times at border points.
Additionally, the border crossings between Estonia and Russia are under intense scrutiny, with potential closures and delays. The Narva border crossing has been closed to vehicles, although it remains open to pedestrians for limited hours. As a result, Italian travelers have been cautioned to avoid the border region and to expect long queues at the remaining open crossings.
The Italian advisory also highlights the impact of EU sanctions on Russia, particularly in the context of financial transactions and the movement of goods. Italian nationals are advised to be cautious when traveling to Russia through Estonia, as violations of EU sanctions, including cash and goods export restrictions, can result in severe penalties.
Key Travel Risks for Italian Citizens:
Long waiting times at border crossings due to the new biometric system.
Potential border closures at short notice, particularly at the Narva crossing.
Financial sanctions impacting travel to and through Russia.
Avoid traveling to areas near the Russian-Estonian border.
Australia’s Travel Advisory for Estonia
Australia has issued a travel advisory for Estonia, urging Australians to exercise normal safety precautions while in the country. The advisory specifically highlights the changes brought about by the new Entry/Exit System for all non-EU nationals, including Australians, traveling in and out of the Schengen Area.
The Australian government has warned of the longer queues and additional checks at Estonia’s borders due to the implementation of the EES. While the system itself is intended to improve security, it has led to logistical challenges, especially for travelers who are unfamiliar with the new process.
Moreover, the Australian advisory mentions concerns about petty crime, particularly in tourist-heavy areas such as Tallinn’s Old Town. Pickpocketing, drink spiking, and credit card fraud are known to occur in busy areas, and Australians are advised to remain vigilant, especially in bars, nightclubs, and public transportation hubs. Australians should also be cautious when using taxis, ensuring they use licensed and official services only.
Key Travel Risks for Australian Citizens:
Long waiting times at border crossings due to biometric registration.
Petty crime risks, particularly pickpocketing and drink spiking in tourist areas.
Use of unauthorized taxis and financial fraud risks.
Increased border security concerns due to the proximity to Russia.
General Border and Travel Concerns for All Travelers
For travelers of all nationalities, the primary concern when traveling to Estonia is the changing border dynamics with Russia. The Narva-Ivangorod border crossing is currently only accessible by foot, and all vehicle traffic has been halted. This has led to significant traffic congestion, and travelers are advised to be prepared for long waits, particularly if they have not registered their vehicle online.
The Koidula and Luhamaa crossings are still operational for vehicles, but there is a risk of sudden closure, depending on the political situation. The Estonian authorities have also made it clear that they may close these crossings with little to no notice. Therefore, travelers planning to return to Estonia from Russia should be aware that their journey could be disrupted without warning.
Another key issue affecting all travelers is Estonia’s strict enforcement of EU sanctions against Russia. The export of cash and goods to Russia is prohibited, and violations of these sanctions can result in heavy fines or even imprisonment. Travelers are urged to ensure they understand the regulations governing personal use of cash and goods, particularly at border crossings, to avoid any legal issues.
What to Do Before Traveling to Estonia
Before traveling to Estonia, it is crucial to ensure that all travel documents are in order. While Estonia is part of the Schengen Area, travelers may still be required to show proof of onward travel, sufficient funds for their stay, and a valid passport. With the introduction of the Entry/Exit System, travelers should prepare for biometric data collection upon arrival and departure.
Additionally, travelers should check for any last-minute changes to border conditions and ensure they are updated on the status of crossings, especially if they plan to travel near the Russian border. Consulting the official websites of Estonia’s Border Guard Agency and the respective embassies will provide the most accurate and up-to-date information.
The travel advisories issued by Germany, the UK, Italy, and Australia reflect a growing concern over Estonia’s security situation and the impact of the new entry/exit system on travelers. While the country remains a popular destination, travelers should remain informed about potential disruptions at border crossings, especially those near Russia, and be prepared for longer waiting times due to the new biometric checks.
Germany, the UK, Italy, and Australia have issued travel advisories for Estonia due to concerns over the new Entry/Exit System and ongoing border security issues, particularly with Russia. These advisories highlight risks of delays, potential border closures, and heightened political tensions in the region.
For those planning to visit Estonia, it is essential to follow the advice of local authorities, exercise heightened vigilance against petty crime, and ensure that all travel documents and border procedures are in order. By doing so, travelers can minimize risks and ensure a smoother journey in the face of these ongoing challenges.
