Rule changes
Every change to the rules we cover, with the date it takes effect and the official source. Upcoming changes are marked as changing or expected until they happen.
China
The 30-day visa-free scheme for UK, Irish, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand passports is due to end, unless it's extended again
NIA: countries covered by unilateral visa exemption · Logged 26 Oct 2026
South Korea
The K-ETA exemption for US, UK, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand passports is due to end. Irish passports already need a K-ETA
K-ETA: notice on the extension of the temporary exemption · Logged 26 Oct 2026
United States
The ESTA fee went up from $40.27 to $40.62
ESTA frequently asked questions · Logged 26 Oct 2026
Thailand
Visa-free stays cut from 60 to 30 days for US, UK, Irish, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand passports
Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs: visa exemption list · Royal Thai Embassy London: revision of visa exemption · Logged 26 Oct 2026
Japan
The International Tourist Tax on leaving Japan rose from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 for tickets issued from 1 July 2026
National Tax Agency: International Tourist Tax · Logged 26 Oct 2026
Schengen area
Entry/Exit System fully live, with fingerprints and a photo at the border instead of passport stamps
EU: What is the EES? · Logged 26 Oct 2026
United Kingdom
The UK ETA now costs £20
Home Office immigration and nationality fees, 8 April 2026 · Logged 26 Oct 2026
United Kingdom
Airlines and ferries now refuse to carry visitors who need a UK ETA and don't have one
GOV.UK: UK enforces digital permission to travel · Logged 26 Oct 2026
China
30 days visa-free for UK and Canadian passports, until 31 December 2026
Chinese Embassy in Canada: visa-free policy for Canada and the UK · Logged 26 Oct 2026
United States
Face scans for all non-US citizens when they arrive in and leave the USA
DHS final rule on biometric entry/exit · Logged 26 Oct 2026
Schengen area
ETIAS, an online travel permit costing €20, will be needed before you travel. The EU says it will give several months' notice
EU: ETIAS timeline explained · Logged 26 Oct 2026