Chicago, New York, Los Angeles travelers face new 2025 travel requirements: What you need to know?

Sunday, January 5, 2025

Travelers from Chicago, New York, Los Angeles should be prepared for several important changes taking effect in 2025 that will impact domestic and international trips.

From updated identification protocols to new travel authorizations, here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth journey.

REAL ID Deadline Approaches

Starting May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers must have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security urges Americans to update their IDs well in advance to avoid potential disruptions.

For more information on obtaining a REAL ID, visit the official DHS website.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for UK Visitors

Beginning January 8, 2025, travelers heading to the United Kingdom will need to register through the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system before their trip.

The UK’s new system, modeled after the U.S.’s ESTA program, aims to enhance security and streamline border procedures.

Cost: Approximately $13
Validity: Two years, allowing multiple entries
How to Apply: Visit the UK government’s official website or use the ETA app.
Note: The ETA is not a visa and does not replace existing visa requirements.

ETIAS Requirements for European Travel

The European Union’s European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is set to launch in May 2025, following previous delays.

U.S. citizens, who have traditionally traveled visa-free to Europe, will need to apply for ETIAS approval before their trip.

Validity: Three years or until passport expiration
Stay Duration: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period
How to Apply: Applications will be available through the ETIAS platform.
Enhanced Air Travel Protections
New federal regulations introduced earlier this year provide additional safeguards for air travelers:

Automatic Refunds: Passengers can receive automatic refunds if flights are canceled or significantly delayed.
Baggage Fee Refunds: Travelers are entitled to refunds for delayed baggage—after 12 hours domestically or 15-30 hours internationally.
Service Failures: Refunds apply for non-functioning paid services, such as in-flight WiFi.
24/7 Support: Airlines must offer round-the-clock customer service to address issues.
With these changes on the horizon, travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, stay informed, and ensure compliance with all new requirements. Safe travels!

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Tags: Chicago, domestic trips, Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), Europe, European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), european union, Los Angeles, New York, Travelers, UK visitors, United Kingdom, visa-free