The best cruise travel insurance will have high coverage limits on emergency medical evacuations, as sea to land evacuations can be expensive. They’ll offer coverage for baggage delay, trip interruption, and it might be a good idea to have some adventure sports coverage if you plan on participating in any outdoor activities like snorkeling or scuba diving.
When comparing the best cruise travel insurance, we evaluated over 25 companies based on the following criteria to come up with our list of top picks:
Customer Satisfaction
We look at ratings from JD Power and other industry giants to see where a company ranks in customer satisfaction. We also look at customer review sites like Trustpilot, SquareMouth, and InsureMyTrip to see what customers have to say, particularly about claims experience.
Policy Types
The most important part of any travel insurance company, we look at all the policies a company offers. While we looked at coverage limits, we also looked at options for multi-trip plans, travel medical insurance, and pre-existing condition coverage. We also considered policy flexibility and add-ons that a company offers.
Average Premiums
We acquired quotes from various travel insurance companies using the same trip details. We compared these quotes side-by-side, taking into account the level of coverage each company offered for the price.
Claims Paid
We looked at how quickly a company processes and pays out on a claims. We also look at any favorable terms related to claims. For example, some companies will pay a claim with additional interest if they take longer than expected to pay out.
Ethics
We look at the company’s overall behavior. Is it operating ethically? Companies can earn additional points for such behaviors.
Compare policies and rates from over 30 travel insurance providers online in minutes with SquareMouth
Insider’s Rating
4.5/5
Perks
Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
AM Best Financial Strength Rating
A-
Reimbursement Options
Up to 200%
Pros
Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
Annual travel insurance plans available
Strong trip cancellation coverage
Cancel for any reason coverage available
Cons
CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer
Insider’s Take
Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There’s also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.
Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
Cancel for any reason coverage available
Nationwide Travel Insurance is a top pick overall for cruise travel insurance, with a long-standing reputation in the insurance industry and solid coverage and reasonable rates for cruises.
It has three cruise travel insurance options: Universal, Choice, and Luxury. The Nationwide Choice plan, for example, offers $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage. It also offers coverage for itinerary changes that caused you to miss pre-paid excursions, from $250 up to $1,000 depending on the plan.
The right plan for you depends on your budget and coverage needs. But each plan offers cruise-specific coverages like ship-based mechanical breakdowns, coverage for missed prepaid excursions if your cruise itinerary changes, and covered service disruptions aboard the cruise ship.
Compare policies and rates from over 30 travel insurance providers online in minutes with SquareMouth
Insider’s Rating
4.17/5
Perks
Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
Reimbursement Options
Up to $1 Million
Pros
Generous medical evacuation coverage
Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
Cons
Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%
Product Details
Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000
AXA Assistance USA is our runner-up for cruise travel insurance, offering three comprehensive coverage plans: Gold, Silver, and Platinum. Each of these plans offers coverage for issues like missed flights, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
The highest-tier Platinum plan provides $250,000 in medical emergency coverage and $1 million in medical evacuation coverage. The baggage loss coverage is $3,000 per person, and their missed connection coverage is $1,500 per person for cruises and tours.
In addition, travelers can take advantage of AXA’s concierge service, which provides an extensive network of international service providers. They’ll be able to assist you with things like restaurant reservations and referrals, golf course information, and more. This service could come in handy if you’re stopping at a variety of unfamiliar destinations during your cruise.
The coverage limits on AXA’s policies are on the higher end compared to other providers. And you can buy coverage for a little as 4% of your trip cost depending on your age, travel destination, and state of residence.
While Seven Corners isn’t the only provider with high age limits, its also known for its affordable premiums for senior travelers while offering above-average medical expenses and medical evacuation coverage limits — two areas of travel insurance coverage that are even more important as we get older.
Seven Corners also offers the option of a preexisting conditions waiver and CFAR insurance at an additional cost, plus “Trip Interruption for Any Reason” coverage, which you won’t find on many policies.
Compare policies and rates from over 30 travel insurance providers online in minutes with SquareMouth
Insider’s Rating
3.33/5
Perks
Travel the world with confidence knowing that you have convenient access to our community of trusted English-speaking physicians in more than 180 countries.
AM Best Financial Strength Rating
A-
Pros
Three plans to choose from
Reasonable premiums
CFAR coverage available with some plans
High medical emergency and evacuation coverage
Cons
Special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc not available
Limited reviews with complaints about claims not being paid
Product Details
Trip cancellation of up to $5,000 with the Economy plan and up to $50,000 with the Preferred plan
Cancel for any reason insurance and missed connection insurance available with the Preferred plan
Baggage delay insurance starting after 24 or 12 hours depending on the plan
HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance is one of the cheapest travel insurance companies. It offers three levels of trip protection: TripProtector Economy, Classic, and Preferred. The higher the tier, the more coverage you’ll get for things like baggage delays, trip delays/cancellations, and medical expenses. Their premiums also remain reasonable even at the highest tier of coverage.
Not only does the HTH Worldwide Trip Protector Preferred plan offer higher-than-average medical emergency and evacuation coverage limits ($500,000 and $1 million, respectively), making it viable for emergency cruise evacuations. You’ll also get a baggage loss coverage limit of $2,000 per person and coverage for trip interruption of up to 200% of the trip cost.
Best for Adventure Cruises
Best Cruise Travel Insurance for Adventure Cruises
compare policies and rates with SquareMouth Travel Insurance
Insider’s Rating
3.83/5
AM Best Financial Strength Rating
A-
Pros
Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
Cons
If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
Doesn’t offer coverage for travelers older than 70
No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
Product Details
Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
2 plans: Standard and Explorer
Trip protection for up to $10,000
Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)
World Nomads Travel Insurance is the best cruise travel insurance for people taking cruises that involve adventure activities. World Nomads offers coverage for over 300 activities, including aquatic activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and deep sea fishing. This benefit will cover the myriad of excursions you may book while on your cruise.
The basic Standard Plan comes with $125,000 in medical emergency coverage and $400,000 in emergency evacuation coverage. You’ll get higher coverage limits with their Explorer or Epic plans, plus a greater variety of covered activities. However, it’s worth noting that emergency evacuation coverage maxes out at $700,000.
World Nomads is also one of the few travel insurance providers that sells policies to people who have already departed for their trip, perfect if you want last-minute travel insurance for cruises. However, policies bought after departure have a 72-hour waiting period.
Compare Cruise Insurance
Introduction to Cruise Travel Insurance
Travel insurance for cruises may offer unique coverage like missed port of call and medical evacuation coverage. You might not need the flight protections of a regular travel insurance plan if you’re catching a cruise at a port near you, but medical and cancel for any reason coverage could be critical. The best travel insurance plans will provide flexibility to add coverage options to fit your travels needs.
Understanding the Basics of Cruise Travel Insurance
At its core, cruise insurance is your financial lifeboat, designed to protect you from unforeseen events that could disrupt your sea voyage. Whether it’s a sudden illness, adverse weather, or other unexpected occurrences, having the right insurance can make a world of difference.
Why Cruise Travel Insurance is Important
Picture this: You’re all set for your dream cruise, but a sudden family emergency means you can’t set sail. Or worse, you fall ill in the middle of the ocean. Without cruise insurance, you’re not just missing out on an adventure, but also facing potentially huge financial losses. That’s why securing cruise insurance isn’t just recommended; it’s a crucial part of your cruise planning.
Types of Cruise Travel Insurance Coverage
Cruise insurance isn’t a one-size-fits-all life jacket. There are various types of coverage, each tailored to protect different aspects of your cruise experience.
Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage
This coverage is like your safety net, catching you financially if you need to cancel your trip last minute or cut it short due to emergencies, be it due to personal, health-related, or even certain work conflicts. Interruption coverage should also include coverage for missed stops on your cruise or the cost of rejoining a departed cruise if you missed your cruise due to a delayed or cancelled flight. You can also find coverage for missed nonrefundable pre-booked excursions due to a covered incident or missed ports during your cruise.
Medical Coverage
Being on a cruise shouldn’t mean being adrift from medical care. Travel medical coverage ensures that if you fall ill or get injured, your medical expenses won’t sink your finances.
When you purchase travel medical insurance, be sure to note whether your coverage is primary or secondary. Secondary insurance means you’ll need to file a claim with your primary insurance provider before filing with your travel insurance provider.
Emergency Evacuation Coverage
In the rare case that you need to be evacuated from the ship due to a medical emergency or severe weather, this coverage ensures you’re not left adrift in a sea of expenses. You’ll want high coverage limits for emergency evacuation, as sea-to-land evacuations can be costly.
Baggage and Personal Effects Coverage
Imagine reaching your dream destination only to find your luggage lost at sea. This coverage ensures that lost, stolen, or damaged baggage doesn’t dampen your cruise experience. It’ll reimburse you for any money you spent replacing items while traveling.
Adventure Sports Coverage
Cruises often offer activities that can be classified as adventure sports, such as snorkeling and scuba diving. Medical treatment for injuries sustained while participating in these activities isn’t normally covered under normal travel medical coverage. If you’re planning on participating in any adventure activities, you’ll want to ensure that your policy explicitly includes coverage for these activities or offers an adventure sports coverage add-on.
Tips for Buying the Best Cruise Travel Insurance for You
Securing the best travel insurance for cruises isn’t just about finding the best price; it’s about ensuring it covers all your potential needs.
When to Purchase Cruise Insurance
It’s always best to purchase cruise insurance soon after placing the initial deposit on your cruise. The sooner you buy your insurance, the quicker your trip is protected against a sudden cancellation. Additionally, most travel insurance plans have optional riders you can add to your policy as long as you purchase your policy within a certain window.
For example, cancel for any reason coverage often needs to be purchased within a purchasing window, which can last anywhere between a few days to three weeks from your initial trip deposit. You can also get coverage if you’re traveling with preexisting medical conditions under the same conditions by purchasing your policy early, depending on your provider.
That said, most companies will let you buy travel insurance up until the day before your departure. There are some limited policies that you can purchase after you’ve left for your trip, such as Allianz OneTrip Emergency Medical policy.
How to Find the Best Deals on Cruise Travel Insurance
Keep a lookout for deals, but remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Balance cost with coverage, and ensure you’re getting the protection you need at a price that doesn’t rock your financial boat.
A travel insurance comparison site like VisitorsCoverage and InsureMyTrip are good cruise insurance aggregators. You can compare quotes for the best travel insurance side-by-side and compare benefits.
FAQs
The best time to buy cruise travel insurance is right after you book your trip. It’ll cover anything before the trip, and you’ll qualify for additional coverage like preexisting condition waivers.
Cruise travel insurance covers trip cancellations, interruptions, medical emergencies, emergency evacuations, and lost or damaged baggage, though coverage can vary based on the policy.
Most travel insurance companies do not allow you to purchase cruise insurance after departure. However, World Nomads offers post-departure travel insurance with a 72-hour waiting period.
Yes, you can buy your own cruise travel insurance that isn’t offered through the cruise line operator. It may be a better option if you want coverage for travel to the cruise’s departure point, as well.
Senior Associate Editor at Personal Finance Insider
Paul Kim was a senior associate editor and personal finance expert at Business Insider. For over two years, he edited and reported on various personal finance subjects, from white-collar crimes to pet insurance. ExperiencePaul led Personal Finance Insider’s insurance coverage. He broke down complex insurance topics and reviews insurance companies so readers can make an informed choice. Previously, Paul led PFI’s credit score coverage, writing and editing stories debt, improving your credit score, and protecting your credit report.Before joining Business Insider in 2022, Paul reported on local restaurant, retail, and real estate developments in Metro Atlanta. He managed his college newspaper at NYU, Washington Square News. He also spent some time working at a boba shop.Paul believes in a reader-first approach to service journalism, addressing the questions readers need answering and writing stories that understand that personal finance isn’t one-size-fits-all. As a personal finance editor in his 20s, Paul recognizes how deeply smart financial decisions will impact members of his generation.ExpertisePaul’s list of expertise includes:
Debt management
Credit scores
Credit bureaus
Identity theft and protection
Pet insurance
Travel insurance
Homeowners insurance
Auto insurance
Life insurance
EducationPaul Kim studied journalism and public policy at NYU with a minor in food studies. When he’s not writing and editing personal finance stories, Paul searches for a decent recipe substitute for cilantro, aimlessly wanders around New York City, and desperately tends to his money tree. He has also spent a significant amount of time building expertise in watermelon picking. You can reach Paul at pmkimwrites@gmail.com.
Passengers booking confirmed or RAC e-tickets through Indian Railways can opt for a low-cost Optional Travel Insurance Scheme by paying just 45 paise per journey, inclusive of all taxes, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced in the Lok Sabha.
The scheme provides insurance coverage during the train journey, with policy details and claim settlements managed entirely by the insurance company. Over the last five years, 333 claims have been settled, with ₹27.22 crore paid to affected passengers and their families. This initiative aims to make travel safer, affordable, and seamless for millions of railway travellers.
Affordable Travel Protection Made Easy and Accessible
The Optional Travel Insurance Scheme, known as OTIS, is designed exclusively for passengers who book confirmed and RAC tickets online through the IRCTC portal or app. For a minimal premium of 45 paise per trip (which includes a base premium of ₹0.38 plus applicable GST), passengers receive coverage that begins when boarding the train and lasts until disembarking.
Opting into the scheme is as simple as ticking a checkbox during ticket booking, with no extra paperwork or separate application required. Policy information, including nomination instructions, is then sent directly to the passenger’s registered mobile number and email from the insurance provider, ensuring transparency and ease of access.
Comprehensive Coverage for Peace of Mind
The insurance covers multiple travel-related risks, including accidental death, permanent total disability, and hospitalization expenses due to injuries sustained during the journey. The scheme ensures that passengers, particularly those travelling long distances or in challenging conditions, have a financial safety net.
As the policy and claims are handled directly by the insurance company, passengers can engage with the insurer to file claims without involving the Railways, expediting the settlement process. This separation streamlines procedures and reduces delays, enhancing passenger confidence in the programme.
Historical Context and Government’s Digital Inclusion Drive
Introduced in 2016, OTIS reflects the government’s broader objective to integrate digital services with passenger safety and financial inclusion. India’s vast railway network serves millions daily, many of whom lack access to conventional insurance products.
By embedding insurance purchase within the ticket booking experience, Indian Railways facilitates effortless adoption of protective financial products. The affordability of the scheme, enabled by a nominal premium, was consciously designed to encourage widespread use, especially benefiting lower-income passengers and first-time insurance users who might otherwise remain uninsured during travel.
Usage Statistics and Impact So Far
Since its inception, the scheme has settled 333 claims, disbursing ₹27.22 crore to passengers or their beneficiaries. The figures highlight its operational effectiveness and the real-world need for travel insurance among railway passengers.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted these achievements in his parliamentary reply, reinforcing the commitment to passenger welfare through affordable, technology-integrated solutions.
Seamless Integration and User-Friendly Experience
OTIS’s integration into the IRCTC ticketing system means passengers do not have to go through multiple platforms or complicated procedures to protect themselves. The opt-in/opt-out option is clearly presented during the booking process.
Once confirmed, instant communication from the insurer ensures passengers are fully informed of their coverage and claim procedures. This user-centric design marks a step forward in digital public service delivery, leveraging India’s rapidly expanding internet and smartphone penetration.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian applauds this innovative approach that integrates financial security into everyday travel decisions, potentially protecting millions from unforeseen risks at minimal cost. However, the scheme’s success ultimately depends on widespread awareness and understanding among passengers.
Many travellers remain unaware of OTIS or its benefits, reducing potential uptake. We urge government agencies and Indian Railways to launch sustained awareness campaigns and educational outreach to promote this safety net effectively.
Those flying this month could face disruption amid widespread industrial action from baggage handlers for the airline
The strike is by baggage handlers who handle the service for the budget airline(Image: Getty Images)
Thousands of Ryanair passengers face being caught up in Spanish airport strikes as more than 3,000 baggage handlers who service the airline stage walkouts at 12 of the country’s busiest airports.
The action will start from August 15 and will affect airports including Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Seville, Alicante, Ibiza, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, Tenerife South, Girona, Lanzarote and Santiago de Compostela. The stoppages are scheduled for August 15,16 and 17 and come at critical times of the day.
Workers will down tools on these days between am to 9am, 12pm to 3pm and 9pm to 11.59pm. The strikes will then continue every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday for the rest of the year.
And Ryanair passengers are being urged to check what cover they have on their travel insurance now to see if they have any right to compensation.
Baggage handlers say they are striking in response to poor working conditions and labour rights violations.
Niraj Mamtora, Director at Forum Insurance, said it’s crucial those planning to fly when industrial action is being taken check their policies.
Niraj said: “Standard travel insurance policies often exclude airspace disruptions, so you should never assume that you’re covered for events like strikes, airport closures or air traffic control outages. To protect yourself, look for a policy that offers ‘travel disruption’ or ‘airspace closure’ as an optional extra or higher-tier feature.
“Travel disruption insurance can cover you if your flight is cancelled or delayed due to strikes or airspace closures, and may reimburse you for unused travel and accommodation, enforced stays abroad, or extra expenses if you’re stranded and no suitable alternative transport is available for more than 24 hours.
“Even when the disruption is caused by ground staff, such as baggage handlers, it can still affect flights and fall under certain travel disruption or airspace closure clauses, depending on the policy wording.
Experts say you may be covered by insurance in the event of disruption but urge fliers to check today(Image: Getty )
“Always check your policy wording carefully. Some insurers require that the disruption be unexpected and not known at the time you book or buy your policy.
“If you travel against official advice, or if the event was foreseeable, you may not be covered.”
If you’re already booked and unsure if you are covered it’s worth looking to the fine print in the section of your policy on ‘travel disruption’ or ‘missed departures’.
Niraj explained: “First, check your existing policy documents carefully. Some standard travel insurance plans may offer limited protection for delays or missed departures, even if they don’t specifically mention airspace closure.
“Look for sections on ‘travel disruption’ or ‘missed departure’ to see if any cover applies.
“If your policy doesn’t include this, contact your airline or travel provider directly. Airlines are often obliged to offer rebooking, refunds, or care such as meals and accommodation. Package holiday providers may also be responsible for rearranging your travel or offering compensation.
“For future trips, consider adding ‘travel disruption’ or ‘airspace closure’ cover as an optional extra. It’s a small investment that can save you significant stress and cost if the unexpected happens again.”
Niraj has also shared additional tips for those travelling to Spain later this month:
“ Review your policy documents today. Even if you think you’re covered, the terms, exclusions and conditions matter.”
“If you’ve only just booked your holiday or insurance, be aware that insurers may not cover disruption from a strike that was already public knowledge at the time. Check whether the strike counts as a ‘known event’ under your policy.”
“ Contact your airline or tour operator early if you’re due to fly during strike dates. Many providers have plans in place, but you need to act quickly.”
“ Keep receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses caused by delays . You may need them if you make a claim.”
“If you can, consider travelling outside the planned strike windows to reduce the risk of disruption.”
“If your flight is delayed and you miss a connecting journey or prepaid transfer, you may only be covered if your policy includes missed connection or onward travel protection. Always check the fine print.”
Niraj added: “Travel disruption cover usually doesn’t allow you to cancel your holiday just because of expected delays. Claims are typically only accepted for specific costs you’ve incurred due to confirmed disruption.”
Home»Greece»Greece Travel News» Norway Joins France, Denmark, Estonia, Greece, and Croatia as UK Announces Travel Advisory for New Schengen Border Entry Requirements
Published on
August 7, 2025 |
By: TTW News Desk
Norway joins France, Denmark, Estonia, Greece, and Croatia as the UK issues new travel restrictions due to change in border entry requirements which will come into effect on the 12th of October, 2025. This is in parallel with the additional biometric security features set to be implemented by the EU on its new border control system, the Entry/Exit System (EES). The UK is warning its travelers to be prepared for additional security finger, face, and eye recognition checks on entering these countries, which will need to implement tighter border security and reduce the risk of illegal immigration for the Schengen countries.]
As the European Union prepares to roll out its new Entry/Exit System (EES) on October 12, 2025, the UK FCDO has issued a new travel advisory for British citizens traveling to the Schengen area. This update comes as several Schengen nations, including Norway, France, Denmark, Estonia, Greece, and Croatia, implement new entry protocols that will affect travelers arriving from the UK. The EES will introduce new biometric checks and further border regulations, impacting travelers’ experience at the border.
Norway: Updated Travel Rules and Entry Requirements
Norway is one of the Schengen countries where UK citizens will face new entry requirements starting October 12, 2025. As a part of the Schengen area, Norway will introduce the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES). This means travelers will need to undergo biometric screening, including fingerprint and facial recognition, when entering or leaving the country. These checks will be part of the broader European effort to enhance border security and streamline immigration processes.
For British travelers, the following requirements will apply:
Passport Validity: UK travelers must ensure their passports meet Schengen rules. Your passport must have been issued less than 10 years before your arrival in Norway and must remain valid for at least 3 months after your intended departure from the Schengen area.
Visa Requirements: UK travelers can visit Norway for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa for tourism, business, or short-term studies. However, the new EES could slightly increase wait times at border crossings.
Travel Insurance: While travel insurance is not compulsory, it is strongly recommended. Insurance should cover emergencies, such as health issues, cancellations, and trip interruptions.
Onward Tickets and Financial Proof: Travelers may be asked to show a return or onward ticket and prove sufficient funds to cover their stay.
France: Stricter Schengen Entry and Biometric Checks
France has long been a popular destination for UK travelers, but starting on October 12, 2025, visitors will face tighter entry controls. Like other Schengen nations, France will implement the new EES system, which involves biometric data collection (fingerprints and facial photos) at border entry and exit points.
For UK passport holders traveling to France, these changes mean:
Passport Validity: UK passports must meet the Schengen validity requirements. If your passport was issued more than 10 years ago (before October 1, 2018), ensure that it meets the criteria set by the Schengen area for entry.
Visa-free Travel: Travelers can still enter France for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business without a visa. However, overstays could result in a three-year ban from entering any Schengen country.
Proof of Funds and Accommodation: Travelers may be asked to provide evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of their stay and proof of accommodation, such as hotel bookings.
Travel Insurance: It is advisable to obtain comprehensive travel insurance, particularly to cover any medical emergencies or trip cancellations.
Denmark: Enhanced Border Security with EES and New Travel Guidelines
Denmark, another prominent Schengen country, will also implement the EU’s Entry/Exit System starting on October 12, 2025. For British travelers, this means additional biometric checks, including fingerprint and facial recognition scans, when entering or leaving the country.
Key travel considerations for Denmark include:
Passport Validity: Ensure that your UK passport is not older than 10 years from the date of arrival in Denmark, and that it has at least 3 months of validity remaining after your intended departure from the Schengen area.
Visa Requirements: As a tourist, UK travelers do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This applies for business, tourism, and short-term study trips.
Travel Insurance: While travel insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended for your protection during your travels. Ensure your insurance covers health emergencies and trip cancellations.
Proof of Funds: Be prepared to show financial evidence of your ability to cover your expenses during your stay, especially if traveling to multiple countries in the Schengen area.
Estonia: New Schengen Rules for Short Stays and Longer Visits
Estonia, one of the Baltic nations in the Schengen zone, will also be rolling out the new EES system from October 12, 2025. British citizens traveling to Estonia should be aware of the following updates:
Passport Validity: As with other Schengen countries, UK passport holders must ensure their passport was issued within the last 10 years and remains valid for at least 3 months after departure from Estonia.
Visa-Free Travel: UK nationals can continue to travel to Estonia for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for business, tourism, or short-term studies without the need for a visa.
Additional Border Controls: With the introduction of the EES, travelers will be required to undergo biometric screening at border entry and exit points. This is a new measure aimed at improving security across the Schengen area.
Travel Insurance: Ensure that you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and other unexpected issues during your stay in Estonia.
Proof of Funds: Be ready to show proof that you can financially support yourself for the duration of your trip, especially if your stay includes multiple Schengen countries.
Greece: Updated Border Controls and EES Implementation
Greece, a key destination for British tourists, will implement the new EES system on October 12, 2025, affecting travelers’ entry and exit procedures. Here’s what UK travelers need to know:
Passport Validity: Ensure that your UK passport is no older than 10 years from your arrival date in Greece and valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure from the Schengen area.
Visa-Free Travel: UK passport holders can visit Greece for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, or short-term studies without requiring a visa.
EES Impact: As part of the EES system, UK travelers will need to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photos) upon arrival and departure. While this is intended to enhance border security, it may result in longer waiting times at entry points.
Travel Insurance: While not mandatory, travel insurance that covers medical expenses, cancellations, and other emergencies is highly recommended.
Financial Requirements: Border officials may ask for proof that you have enough funds to cover your stay in Greece. Be prepared to present evidence of sufficient funds, especially for extended stays or travel to multiple Schengen countries.
Croatia: Transition to Schengen Rules and Enhanced Entry Procedures
Croatia, which recently joined the Schengen area, will implement the new EES system as part of the EU’s updated border security measures. British travelers should prepare for the following changes:
Passport Validity: UK passport holders must ensure their passports are valid for at least 3 months after their departure from Croatia and that they were issued within the last 10 years.
Visa Requirements: UK nationals can travel to Croatia for up to 90 days in a 180-day period without a visa for tourism or business purposes.
Biometric Screening: Starting in October 2025, travelers will need to undergo biometric screening at the border. This process involves fingerprint and facial recognition, and may increase processing times.
Travel Insurance: Although travel insurance is not mandatory, it is recommended for covering unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies or travel delays.
Proof of Financial Support: Border guards may ask for evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Croatia. Be ready to present evidence of accommodation and financial support.
Norway, along with France, Denmark, Estonia, Greece, and Croatia, is now part of the UK’s updated travel advisory due to the new Schengen entry regulations coming into effect on October 12, 2025. These changes, including biometric checks and stricter border controls, are being implemented to enhance security and streamline immigration processes across the Schengen area.
Starting October 12, 2025, when the Schengen zone implements new biometric entry and exit systems, British travelers to Norway, France, Denmark, Estonia, Greece, and Croatia will face increased scrutiny at border control. These alterations represent the European Union’s attempts to improve security procedures and streamline the flow of immigration. Following the new entry protocols, having valid passports, needed documents, and appropriate travel insurance will ease your travel throughout the Schengen area. Always review the most recent travel warnings and comply with the policies of every individual country to ensure timely travel or issues throughout the journey.
