This month’s edition investigates the new entry and exit procedures in Europe and the U.S. The EU has started the soft launch of a new biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) at Schengen borders, with full rollout by April 2026 and ETIAS to follow. GBTA is advocating for stronger passenger rights and celebrating 40 years of Schengen, while Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) will discuss travel issues at the GBTA +VDR Conference 2025 next month in Hamburg. EU climate goals are delayed, pending further talks. In the U.S., CBP introduces new security innovations, and a $250 Visa Integrity Fee takes effect for most nonimmigrant visas.
Not covered in detail, because there haven’t been any significant updates, is the ongoing U.S. government shutdown that as of this date is entering its 5th week. As you may recall in last month's edition, I stated we were in the public name dragging phase. As we enter into the second longest U.S. government shutdown, the names are still flying as neither side has yet to show an inclination to discuss publicly how the government will reopen. In my view, most people’s daily lives aren’t impacted in tangible ways by the shutdown yet. However, the pressure to reach an agreement may increase, should holiday travel begin to be affected. In the meantime, U.S. residents can utilize the GBTA Legislative Action Center to send a note to your members of Congress raising the concerns the industry has and to seek an agreement to reopen the federal government.
Last, as you read through this issue, don’t forget to look at the carefully curated videos to enhance your experience!
Tags: GBTA
