Major Travel Restrictions Now in Effect Across Europe and United States
November 2025 brings sweeping changes to international travel restrictions affecting millions of travelers worldwide. The European Union officially launched its biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12, 2025, with expanded rollout beginning November 1st at major ports including Dover. Additionally, U.S. travel bans affecting 19 countries remain in effect following their June 2025 implementation, while new visa interview requirements impact nearly all applicants.
These changes represent the most significant overhaul to global border control systems in over a decade. Travelers planning international trips must now prepare for biometric screening, extended processing times, and stricter documentation requirements.
EU Entry/Exit System: Key Biometric Requirements for November 2025
Starting November 1, 2025, the Port of Dover and other major European crossing points expanded EES registration to include all vehicle traffic, not just coach passengers. This affects thousands of daily travelers entering the Schengen zone.
- Biometric Registration Required: All non-EU nationals must provide fingerprints and facial photos at first entry and exit
- Digital Records Replace Stamps: Traditional passport stamping eliminated in favor of electronic border management system
- 29 Countries Affected: All Schengen Area nations implementing the new digital border controls
- One-Time Registration: After initial biometric capture, subsequent crossings require only quick verification
- Progressive Rollout: Full implementation across all EU border points by April 10, 2026
- Processing Delays Expected: First-time registrants should allow 5-10 extra minutes per crossing
The European Commission emphasizes that this system enhances security while modernizing border management. However, travelers should anticipate longer wait times during the initial rollout phase, particularly at high-traffic crossing points like Dover, Calais, and major international airports.
Who Is Affected by These Travel Restrictions
The travel restriction updates impact different traveler groups in specific ways. Understanding your category helps you prepare the correct documentation and avoid delays.
For U.S. Citizens Traveling to Europe
American travelers must now complete biometric registration when entering any of the 29 Schengen countries. This includes popular destinations like France, Spain, Italy, and Germany. Additionally, U.S. citizens need a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) since January 8, 2025, for short visits to the United Kingdom.
For Citizens of 19 Countries Under U.S. Travel Ban
Twelve countries face complete U.S. entry bans: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Seven countries have partial restrictions: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela (student and exchange visitor visas blocked).
For All Visa Applicants to the United States
Effective October 1, 2025, nearly all nonimmigrant visa applicants—including children under 14 and adults over 79—must attend mandatory in-person interviews. Previous age-based exemptions have been eliminated, requiring applicants to schedule interviews in their country of residence or nationality.
How to Prepare for EU Biometric Border Crossing - Step by Step
Follow these steps to ensure smooth processing at EU borders:
- Verify Your Passport Validity: Ensure passport photo meets current requirements and document has 6+ months validity
- Arrive Early: Add 30-60 minutes to your normal crossing time for first-time EES registration
- Prepare Biometric Data: Be ready to scan fingerprints and provide facial photo at designated kiosks
- Keep Travel Documents Accessible: Have passport, return tickets, and accommodation proof readily available
- Complete Registration at First Entry: Initial biometric capture occurs at your first Schengen border crossing
- Save Your Registration Confirmation: Keep digital or paper proof of EES enrollment for future reference
Important Dates and Timeline for Travel Restrictions
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to avoid travel disruptions:
- October 12, 2025: EU Entry/Exit System officially launched across Schengen zone
- November 1, 2025: Port of Dover begins full EES registration for all vehicle traffic
- November 11, 2025: Several Schengen countries end temporary internal border controls (Austria, Germany, Denmark)
- December 2025: Half of EU border points operating EES with biometric checks for one-third of passengers
- January 2026: Majority of EU borders processing at least 50% of travelers through EES
- April 10, 2026: Full EES implementation mandatory at all external Schengen border crossing points
- May 7, 2025 (ongoing): U.S. REAL ID requirement enforced for domestic flights
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need Biometric Registration for Every Trip to Europe?
No, you only register once. The EU Entry/Exit System captures your biometric data during your first entry and first exit. After initial registration, subsequent trips require only quick verification at automated kiosks. Your biometric data remains valid for multiple trips within the three-year validity period.
Can I Still Travel to the U.S. If I'm From a Restricted Country?
Exemptions exist for certain categories. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders), dual nationals using non-restricted country passports, asylees, refugees, and athletes attending the 2026 World Cup or 2028 Olympics can still enter. Additionally, foreign nationals who obtained valid visas before June 9, 2025, are not subject to the ban.
How Long Will EES Registration Take at the Border?
First-time registration typically adds 5-10 minutes per person. During the initial rollout phase through March 2026, delays may extend to 15-20 minutes at busy crossing points. Families should expect longer processing times, as each traveler must complete individual biometric registration, even children.
Are Visa Interview Waivers Still Available?
Very limited waivers remain in effect. Since October 1, 2025, only diplomats (A-1, A-2, C-3, G-1 through G-4, NATO) and travelers renewing B-1/B-2 visas within 12 months of expiration qualify for interview waivers. Nearly all other applicants must attend in-person interviews regardless of age.
What You Need to Know Before Your Next International Trip
November 2025 marks a turning point in global travel security. The EU's biometric border system, combined with stricter U.S. visa requirements, means international travelers must plan further ahead and allocate extra time for border crossings. Additionally, ensure your passport photo meets current requirements for both document validity and biometric system compatibility.
Whether traveling to Europe or applying for U.S. visas, verify your documentation well in advance. Many travelers use professional services like VisaPics to ensure their passport photos meet exact government specifications, avoiding rejection and processing delays. Check the specific visa photo requirements for your destination country and prepare all necessary documents before scheduling travel or visa interviews.