6 important travel tips Canadians need to know before visiting Europe in 2025

The ETIAS is coming, but not just yet

Good news! Canadians don't need a special travel permit just yet. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) was supposed to roll out last year, requiring Canadians and other visa-exempt travellers to apply for entry approval before entering Europe. But, thanks to some delays, it won't be kicking in until mid-2025.

That means, for now, you can still show up with your Canadian passport and enjoy up to 90 days in the Schengen Area without extra paperwork.

If you're unsure what the Schengen Area is, it's a giant travel zone covering 30 European countries, including France, Spain, Germany, Italy, and some non-EU spots like Norway and Switzerland. No border checks, no extra visas. Just seamless travel from one dreamy destination to the next.

But don't get too comfortable, because the ETIAS is coming. Once it launches, you'll have to apply online before setting off for your trip. It's not a visa, but it does work like a pre-check system to screen travellers for security reasons.

The application is expected to take about 20 minutes and will cost 7 euros (around $10.50), and once approved, it'll be valid for three years, letting you visit Europe multiple times without reapplying.

If your trip is booked for the summer or later in the year, keep checking for updates on the status of the ETIAS because it's likely that you'll need to apply!

Find out more about ETIAS

Check your passport's expiry date

Before you book your flights, make sure to check your passport's expiration date. Many European countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your return home — a little-known travel rule that could end your vacation before it even starts.

If your passport expires sooner than six months beyond your return to Canada, you could be denied entry at the airport—even if you have a valid ticket and accommodation booked.

If your passport is nearing expiry, renew it well in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.

Budget for tourism tax

Once you arrive at your destination, don't be surprised if you're asked to pay a little extra when checking into your hotel or Airbnb. A lot of European destinations, including many popular cities, now charge tourism taxes, which are small fees collected per night or stay.

For example, Venice has a new day-tripper fee, and cities like Barcelona, Paris, and Amsterdam have long had hotel taxes in place. The amount varies by destination, so it's worth checking in advance to avoid any unexpected charges.

Pay to stop in the U.K.

If your Eurotrip includes a stop in London, Edinburgh, or anywhere in the U.K., there's another new rule you need to know about.

Since January 8, 2025, Canadians have been required to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arriving in England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

Whether you're going for a vacation, visiting family, or just passing through on a layover, you won't be allowed in without it. The application process is online, and you'll need to use the same passport you're travelling with to avoid any border issues.

Find out more about getting an ETA for the U.K.

Check government travel advisories

Before you book anything, check the Government of Canada's website for updated advisories on your destination. Many European countries, including France, Germany, and the U.K., currently have terrorism advisories in place.

In most cases, travel advisories are just meant to provide information, not stop you from travelling. For much of Europe, the advice is simply to stay aware of your surroundings, especially on major holidays or in busy tourist hotspots.

If you're travelling to a country under an advisory, double-check that your travel insurance still covers you. Some policies won't apply if there's an active warning, which could leave you in a tough spot if something goes wrong.

Find out more about Canada's travel advisories for Europe

Don't forget travel insurance

While it might be tempting to skip travel insurance to save money, you could end up with a massive bill if something goes wrong abroad.

European hospitals can charge thousands of dollars for treatment, and some won't even admit you without proof of insurance.

The Government of Canada strongly recommends getting a policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, and emergency evacuations. Again, if you're visiting a country with a travel advisory in place, double-check that your insurance still applies.