Border Regulations Updates

Recent and planned updates to border regulations in the European Union and United Kingdom may affect your future travels. To help you prepare, we’ve gathered all the key information in one place. Whether you're travelling for leisure or business, it’s important to understand these changes and take any necessary steps to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey with us. Stay up to date with the latest developments, including details about the European Entry Exit System (EES), European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), UK eVisa, and the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

The UK has introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for non-European visitors and will extend the requirement to EU citizens (excluding Irish citizens) from 2 April 2025.

• Non-European visitors can apply for an ETA now.
• EU citizens (excluding Irish citizens) will need an ETA for travel beginning 2 April 2025.
• Applications are open now for all eligible travellers.

To check your eligibility and apply, please visit www.gov.uk/electronic-travel-authorisation.

The UK is moving towards fully digital immigration documents, transitioning from physical documents like biometric residence permits, vignette stickers, and ink stamps, to eVisas.

• If you hold a UK visa and use a physical immigration document to prove your rights, take action now by creating a UK Visas and Immigration account to access your eVisa: www.gov.uk/eVisa.
• If you already have an eVisa, ensure your travel information is up to date by notifying the UK Government about the passport you intend to use if it is not already linked to your eVisa account: www.gov.uk/update-uk-visas-immigration-account-details.

Switching to digital documentation aims to simplify and secure border processes for travellers.

The EU is introducing new systems to enhance border control and security. The European Entry Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system designed to register non-EU nationals travelling for short stays each time they cross the external borders of European countries. Additionally, most non-EU citizens will soon require a travel authorisation (ETIAS) to enter most European countries.

The commencement dates for both systems are yet to be confirmed. For more information, visit the official EU websites.

Click below for:
Official ETIAS guidance
Official EES guidance

Preparing for your trip under the new border regulations is simple with the right steps. To avoid potential delays or issues, make sure you're ready well in advance. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth travel experience:

✔️ Check your eligibility for any required travel authorisations or documents.
✔️ Apply as early as possible for systems like ETIAS, ETA, or eVisas. Processing times can vary, so plan ahead.
✔️ Update your travel documents to ensure they’re valid and meet the new requirements.
✔️ Stay informed about the specific regulations that may apply to your route. Check official government websites for the latest updates.

Taking these steps will save time and simplify your travel. If you have questions, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

DFDS is fully preparing for the arrival of these new measures, cooperating with the relevant authorities to ensure that we continue to carry our passengers on their journeys without major disruption.

We will inform you of the travel requirements that will be applicable to you where those are known at the time of booking.  We will contact you with details of any updated information after booking. However, please note that it is the responsibility of passengers to ensure that they are in permission of the correct documentation and completed relevant formalities.