New Travel Requirements in 2025: What Domestic and International Flyers Need to Know

Starting in 2025, significant changes are coming for both domestic and international travelers. The most notable update is the enforcement of the REAL ID Act in the United States. From May 7, 2025, anyone aged 18 or older will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. Acceptable alternatives include a valid U.S. passport, passport card, or DHS trusted traveler cards. It is essential for travelers to check whether their current ID meets the new standards and, if necessary, apply for a REAL ID at their local Department of Motor Vehicles well before the deadline.

For international travelers, another major update takes effect on January 8, 2025. Inbound visitors to the United Kingdom, including U.S. and European citizens, will be required to complete ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) registration before arrival. This system, modeled after the U.S. ESTA, aims to enhance security and streamline the border entry process. The ETA costs about $13, is not a visa, and does not replace existing visa requirements. It will be valid for multiple entries over a two-year period, and travelers can apply either online or via the official ETA app.

With these requirements approaching, travelers are encouraged to update their identification documents and review the new international entry protocols to ensure seamless journeys in 2025 and beyond.