UK travellers must act fast as new border rules for Romania and Bulgaria take effect in two weeks, complicating holiday plans for many.
London: So, here’s the scoop. If you’re planning a trip to Romania or Bulgaria, you’ve got just two weeks to enjoy those countries without any hassle. After that, things are going to get a bit tricky for UK travellers.
Starting January 1, these countries will officially join the Schengen Zone. This means fewer border checks when you’re hopping between Bulgaria and Romania, which is great news. But, there’s a catch. You’ll need to get an ETIAS permit before you go.
Now, don’t panic! The process isn’t too complicated, but you’ll want to get on it soon. The ETIAS system is set to be fully up and running next year, and it’s going to be a must-have for anyone from the UK wanting to visit these countries.
Also, keep in mind that any time you spend in Romania or Bulgaria will count towards the 90-day limit for non-Schengen visitors. So, if you’re planning a longer stay, you’ll need to be mindful of that.
Experts suggest applying for your ETIAS permit as soon as possible. It could take a few minutes to a few days to get approved, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Once you have it, you’re good for three years, or until your passport expires.
So, if you’ve got travel plans, make sure you’re ready to tackle this new requirement. Happy travels!