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Flight Delay and Cancellation Compensation: What to Know

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1 week ago

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Flight delays and cancellations are frustrating, and until recently, it could be an arduous process to receive compensation or a cash refund for travel disruptions. But a federal rule enacted in 2024 makes it easier.

Here’s what to know about flight delay and cancellation compensation.

When can you get a cash refund?

If your flight is canceled or “significantly changed,” you’ll generally have the option to either rebook through the airline or receive a refund. To qualify for a cash refund, you must decline any alternative transportation or travel credits offered by the airline, such as rebooking on another flight. This applies to all passengers, including those traveling on a nonrefundable ticket. Depending on the airline, you might receive cash or travel credits even if you do accept the rebooking (more on that in the next section).

You’ll qualify for a cash refund for your airfare and ancillary service fees under the following conditions:

  • Your flight is canceled or significantly changed: Significant changes include: 

    • Departure or arrival times that are more than three hours domestically and six hours internationally; 

    • Airport changes, including connection changes to a different airport; 

    • An increase in the number of connections; 

    • Downgrades to a lower class of service, for example from business class to coach; 

    • Aircraft changes that are less accessible or accommodating to a disabled person. 

  • You have significantly delayed baggage: Checked bag fees will be reimbursed if a bag is not delivered within 12 hours of a domestic flight arriving at the gate, or 15 to 30 hours of an international flight arriving at the gate (depending on the length of the flight). The passenger must also file a mishandled baggage report with the airline.

  • You paid for extra services not provided: Fees for extra services — such as Wi-Fi, seat selection or inflight entertainment — will be reimbursed if the airline fails to provide the service.

Cash refunds must be “automatic and prompt” and no longer need to be explicitly requested. Refunds must be processed by the airline within seven days for credit card purchases and 20 days for other payment methods (such as award travel with airline miles). Airlines can also no longer substitute vouchers, travel credit or other forms of compensation unless explicitly approved by the passenger.

Rebooking? You might be eligible for additional compensation

Airlines are committed to rebooking passengers at no additional cost if they experience a controllable change or cancellation. It is up to the passenger to either accept that rebooking or receive a refund.

However, it is up to the discretion of each airline to provide additional amenities or compensation, such as meals and hotel accommodations, to those who rebook. These conditions are made public by every airline in their customer service plan and summarized on the U.S. Department of Transportation’s website.

Dig deeper into these protections by tuning into NerdWallet’s Smart Travel podcast. This episode talks about U.S. consumer protections for air travelers.

Every airline except Frontier is committed to covering hotel accommodations (and transportation to that hotel) for any passenger affected by a controllable overnight cancellation. Additionally, Alaska, Hawaiian, JetBlue and Southwest provide a credit or travel voucher when a cancellation results in a passenger waiting for three hours or more from the scheduled departure time (the amount of additional compensation will depend on the airline).

A summary of select commitments from each major airline is shown below.

Rebook on partner airline or another airline with which it has an agreement at no additional cost

Meal or meal cash/voucher when cancellation results in passenger waiting three or more hours for a new flight

Complimentary hotel stay for any passenger affected by an overnight cancellation

Credit/travel voucher when cancellation results in passenger waiting for three hours or more from the scheduled departure time

NerdWallet Smart Travel podcast co-host shared in an episode how she managed to turn a cancelled flight into a free trip to Denver, including hotel room, $200 in United credits and $45 worth of Starbucks giftcards. Listen in:

How to find the reason for your flight delay or cancellation

To determine if you’re due additional compensation for a delay or cancellation beyond rebooking, you’ll need to figure out the reason for the trip interruption. The DOT considers four main types of delays as controllable, including maintenance delays, crew scheduling problems, fuel or baggage loading issues and cabin cleaning delays.

Some airlines do an excellent job of communicating the reason for a trip interruption. United Airlines spells out the reason for a delay at the top of your flight details in the United app. If you’re flying on another airline, you may need to use a service like ExpertFlyer to see the official reason listed for the flight delay or cancellation. You can also ask a flight attendant or gate agent the reason for the interruption, but having physical documentation, such as a screenshot, can be beneficial if you believe you’re due additional compensation for a trip interruption.

When won’t you receive additional compensation?

Some reasons for flight delays or cancellations are considered out of the airline’s control. For example, airlines generally aren’t going to provide compensation for meals or overnight accommodations if inclement weather causes the cancellation of your flight. Other forms of “uncontrollable” delays and cancellations include air traffic delays, safety- or security-related events and infrastructure or utility problems.

Some airlines specifically list other delay reasons that are considered outside the airline’s control, such as “passenger illness” (Alaska Airlines), “Federal Aviation Administration-required crew duty limitations” (Southwest Airlines) and “acts of God” (JetBlue Airways). Beware that different airlines may interpret the same situation differently. You can find out the exact terms in the airline’s customer service plan or contract of carriage.

Ways to protect yourself from delays and cancellations

If you’re on a flight that was canceled due to weather or another reason outside the airline’s control, your credit card perks may save the day. Several travel-related credit cards provide trip delay insurance that covers these types of delays. Just make sure to keep your receipts and note that your credit card’s benefits administrator may request a statement from the airline explaining the reason for the delay.

Top cards with travel insurance

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

NerdWallet Rating

Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

NerdWallet Rating

Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card® from American Express

NerdWallet Rating

on American Express’ website

Rates & Fees

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

NerdWallet Rating

Rates & Fees

Travel protections (not a comprehensive list)

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

Alternatively, you might want to take out a travel insurance policy that will cover you in the case of a wide variety of delays — such as bad weather, airline maintenance or personal medical issues. Some travel insurance policies will even let you cancel a trip for any reason, meaning you’re covered no matter why your flight was delayed or canceled.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

  • The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

  • Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

  • Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Baggage Insurance Plan

  • Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g., plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip.

  • Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

  • Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

How to maximize your rewards



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Railway Passengers Can Now Avail Travel Insurance for Just 45 Paise with E-Tickets: Ashwini Vaishnaw

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6 hours ago

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August 7, 2025

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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. 



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Ryanair passengers urged to check travel insurance today as strikes loom

Published

8 hours ago

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August 7, 2025

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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.”



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Norway Joins France, Denmark, Estonia, Greece, and Croatia as UK Announces Travel Advisory for New Schengen Border Entry Requirements

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9 hours ago

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August 7, 2025

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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.



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