Global Travel is on the rise. The increase in travel requires patience with flight delays, maxed-out airplane capacities, and new travel policies. Being prepared will make for a smoother trip. Scurry Street wants to help you be ready for your next trip - for business or leisure or a mix of the two. This overview will focus on a few updates in policies affecting travelers now.
Travel Documents and Country Entry Requirements
Real ID On May 7, 2025, The REAL ID will be enforced. Passed by Congress in 2005, the REAL ID Act enacted the 9/11 Commission's recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver's licenses.” What this means to travelers is after May 7, 2025, a regular driver’s license will not be enough to pass through airport security or board a plane. Travelers must have the new driver’s license with the gold star. Travelers will still be able to use other approved documents such as Passport, U.S. military ID or an ID from the federal government’s Trusted Traveler Program. To learn more go to www.USA.Gov/real-ID.
Passports If international travel is in your future, now is the time to check your Passport's expiration. To travel abroad, your passport must be valid for 6 months after your travel ends. Be aware that Passport processing times have increased. The U.S. Department of State webpage (Travel.state.gov) states that processing times to get a passport is 10-13 weeks. This time does NOT include mailing time. The best advice is to get or renew your passport, NOW, so you are prepared for your travels.
Visa and entry requirements If you plan to travel to Europe in 2024, you need to be aware of the new travel requirements. The European Union website – https://travel-europe.europa.eu states that the ETIAS is a travel authorization required for entry into European Union countries. The ETIAS will cost around EUR 7. The ETIAS will be valid for three years or until the expiration date of your passport, whichever comes first. Travelers can request the ETIAS online once the webpage is up and running. Regardless of where you are traveling to, it is recommended that you check the “Entry requirements” before travel. Last-minute preparations could lead to being denied entry or delays.
Questions about your upcoming domestic or international travel? Contact Toncie at travel@scurrystreet.com. Toncie Roberson, CMP, CTA®, ACC is a certified Meeting Professional, a Certified Travel Advisor, and Accredited Cruise Counselor. She has been in the Hospitality and Travel Industry for more than 10 years.
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