In Europe, travel rules keep changing. The Schengen area saw several updates in 2025 that have affected travel planning, visas and border controls. This blog takes you through the main points helping you stay updated about the new requirements. It’s important that you know the information contained here before travelling.

Latest Updates in Schengen Visa Rules in 2025

Read on as we share with you vital information on the changes made to Schengen visit visa rules. The information helps you prepare your travel plans better.

Bulgaria and Romania Join Fully

Bulgaria and Romania became full members of the Schengen area from January 1, 2025. They had partial status before with no checks at air or sea borders while land checks still remained in place. Free movement exists now. To ensure security, random checks may still occur until mid‑2025. Travelling between these countries is now no different from travelling across other Schengen countries.

Entry/Exit System (EES) Launches from October 2025

In October 2025, a big change is coming. At all external Schengen borders, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will be applied. Non-EU visitors shall be registered under the EES using fingerprints and facial scans replacing passport stamps. The entry and exit times of travellers shall therefore be recorded digitally. It’ll aid better border security and tracking. The system is also expected to speed up border checks over time.

EES applies to everyone from non‑EU countries, whether they need a visa or are exempted from having one. EU citizens are exempted. From late 2025, travellers from outside the EU should be prepared for having their biometrics at the border crossings.

Also Read : How Long Does It Take To Apply For A Schengen Visa Online?

ETIAS (Travel Authorization) Coming Late in 2026

ETIAS, a new travel authorisation shall be launched for visa-exempt visitors. Similar to the US ESTA, it’s not a visa.

While ETIAS was expected in 2025, it’s now expected to roll out late in 2026 after October. Transition and grace periods will follow the launch. Travellers from visa‑exempt countries for now won’t need an ETIAS in 2025.

Valid for 3 years or until the passport expires, when it starts, ETIAS will cost €7. Multiple entries are allowed. Applicants below the age of 18 and above the age of 70 won’t have to pay the fee.

Travellers must get authorization before departure after applying online. Before boarding, airlines will check ETIAS.

Travellers from countries like the US, UK, Canada, Australia can enter freely until late 2026. It’s however wise to plan for ETIAS ahead.

Rising Digital Visa Process

The EU is preparing to launch a digital Schengen visa. Online visa applications instead of paper forms shall be the norm under the new rules. Travellers shall receive a digital twin of the visa. This change is yet to be implemented fully. Full digitalisation of visas by 2028 is the goal.

Some countries may test parts of the system in 2025. As of now, sticker visas and in-person biometrics are still being practised.

Internal Border Checks Return

While there are no internal borders within the Schengen countries, some countries have reintroduced them citing security issues. Temporary border controls may be put in place by Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Austria, France, Bulgaria, Italy, Germany, Slovenia and the Netherlands.

Travellers should check for alerts and always carry valid ID proofs. The checks will be carried out occasionally and not full-time. Preventing illegal immigration or security threats is the intention. You may approach experts offering international visa service for more information.

New Travel Rules at Airports

For liquids, EU Airports now strictly enforce the 100 ml rule. In many places, the rule is back full-time. Travellers are allowed to carry liquids only in containers of 100 ml or less in clear bags.

Besides, carry‑on policies are being aligned by airlines. The aim is to implement standard rules across all EU airlines. Uniform luggage rules shall kick in from the later half of 2025.

Schengen Visa Holders Can Visit Non‑Schengen States

You can stay in some non-Schengen countries with a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa. These countries include North Macedonia, Albania, Georgia, Serbia, Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Find below, the duration of stay allowed.

North Macedonia: 15 days
Albania: 90 days, if Schengen visa has been used at least once
Georgia and Serbia: up to 90 days each in any 180‑day period
Montenegro: 30 days or until visa expiry
Bosnia & Herzegovina: up to 30 days per visit

Making a Schengen visa more valuable, this extends travel options beyond the Schengen countries.

France Requires Online Appointment

For all travel visa seekers, France now demands online visa appointments. This includes holders of both Schengen short-stay and French national long-stay visas. The system has been launched in the meantime in June 2025. Walk-in and call-in appointments have been discontinued. Appointments have to be fixed on an online portal. While it has made applying more organised, it also implies that one has to plan ahead to get a slot.

Passport Rules and Overstay Policy

Passport validity: passports must have a validity of at least 3 months beyond the departure date. Many countries, however recommend 6 months. The US State Dept has suggested 6 months and Australia has chosen to follow suit.

Overstay: with a Schengen visa, the holder can stay for 90 days in any 180-day period. No extensions are allowed without special approvals. You must leave and wait 90 days before re‑entering after 90 days have expired under the visa-free terms.

Preparing for Travel in 2025

Here are a few handy tips that help you prepare better for travelling in 2025.

France’s new system requires online scheduling. So, book visa and appointment slots early.
Count days in Schengen to avoid overstay fees. Keep a calendar handy.
Get the alert system ready for late 2026 even though there’s no ETIAS in 2025.
Expect fingerprint and facial scans at borders from October.

Final Takeaway

The scenario for Schengen visas in 2025 is still evolving. Country‑specific fees, new members, airport rules and biometric systems shall shape travel planning. These rules are poised to make travelling smoother bringing more security. Keep checking official EU and national embassy websites to stay updated. You could ask any leading travel agency in Dubai for guidance. Make sure that you plan ahead for smoother and safer pan-Europe travelling in 2025.

Schengen Visit Visa Rules 2025: Latest Updates You Need to Know