Travel across Europe is set for major change in 2026. Tourists will face tighter border checks, new digital permits and rising costs.

The European Union says the measures are designed to improve security and manage the flow of visitors.

New systems and checks

The EU finally launched its new Entry/Exit System (EES) on 12 October 2025. The phased rollout is expected to be complete by 10 April 2026.

Rather than having their passports stamped, non-EU travellers crossing external Schengen borders will have to provide biometric data – including passport data, fingerprints and a facial image – electronically on entry. The system will cover all EU countries except Ireland and Cyprus, as well as Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

The goal is to identify visa overstayers and combat illegal migration by verifying travellers’ identities, strengthening security checks, and maintaining a register of entries in EU databases.

Digital authorizations for visa‑free travel

A separate digital permit, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), is also on the way. Scheduled to take effect at the end of 2026, ETIAS will require travelers from visa‑exempt countries to apply online before visiting the Schengen zone.

The fee for ETIAS authorization is set at 20 euros. Once approved, it will allow multiple short stays across the Schengen area for tourism or business, usually valid for several years.

The United Kingdom is also tightening its entry rules. From February 2026, most foreign visitors will need an electronic ETA authorization before travel. The ETA is similar in concept to ETIAS and requires an online application ahead of travel.

Rising travel costs

Tourists will find travel in Europe becoming more expensive in other ways too. Several countries are increasing overnight tourist levies. Short‑term rental regulations are tightening, particularly in popular cities and summer destinations.

Ski resorts and winter tourism hubs are raising prices on passes and services. The changes reflect a broader shift by destinations to manage visitor numbers and generate revenue for local infrastructure.

Air passenger rights talks

Meanwhile, talks continue within the EU on strengthening rights for air passengers. Proposals include clearer compensation rules for delays and cancellations. However, as of early 2026, a final agreement has not been reached.

Europe cracks down on badly behaved tourists

While cost-hiking measures serve a dual purpose of cutting visitor numbers and raising funds, other new rules are aimed more squarely at curbing undesirable tourist behaviour.

San Sebastián is the latest Spanish city to ban smoking on its beaches, while Portugal’s Albufeira last year announced fines for scantily clad tourists. A recent ban on party boats in the Spanish port of Palma, meanwhile, aims to free up infrastructure and address noise complaints from residents.

In France, clampdowns start before tourists even touch down. As of last November, air passengers flouting rules or causing disruption on flights could face fines of up to €20,000 and even boarding bans for up to four years.

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