Australia has issued new travel advisories for several European countries—including Greece, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Switzerland, and Romania—highlighting significant changes and rising security concerns. At the center is the upcoming European Entry/Exit System (EES), which will require biometric checks at borders and could affect travel planning. Travelers are also urged to be cautious of security, natural disasters, and local crimes in these popular destinations.
1. European Entry/Exit System (EES): What Travelers Should Expect
From 12 October 2025, the EU will launch the Entry/Exit System (EES), marking a major transition from passport stamps to automated biometric data capture—such as facial images and fingerprints—when entering or exiting Schengen-area countries. This system will be fully phased in by 10 April 2026.
What this means for Australians:
- Expect longer border processing times due to the biometric checks.
- Allocate extra time during arrival and departure, especially in peak seasons.
2. Country-Specific Safety Advice
Greece
- Be cautious of wildfires, particularly in tourist regions like Santorini, Crete, and around Athens during summer months. Follow local evacuation orders (wildfire reports).
- Greece is in an active seismic zone, with occasional earthquakes and volcanic activity—prepare for rapid response if needed.
- Adventure travelers (especially quad biking enthusiasts) must secure specialized insurance, as these activities may not be covered under standard policies.
Spain
- High terrorism threat level persists. Key tourist sites—museums, churches, transit hubs—can be potential targets. Avoid large crowds and stay alert.
- Protests and strikes are frequent; monitor news and steer clear of demonstrations to avoid disruption.
Denmark
- National terror alert stands at “significant” (level 4). Maintain vigilance in public areas.
- Petty crime and pickpockets are prevalent in major city hubs like Copenhagen—avoid flaunting valuables.
Sweden
- Terror risk is “elevated” (level 3), though violent crime remains rare. Some gang-related violence has occurred in urban areas—exercise caution at night.
- Keep watch in public spaces and stay updated via local safety advisories.
Switzerland
- Generally safe, but petty crimes, especially pickpocketing in tourist-dense areas and public transit, have increased.
- Maintain heightened awareness around crowded attractions.
Romania
- Rising security risks due to regional instability near the Ukrainian border.
- Petty theft, hotel thefts, and drink spiking—particularly in Bucharest’s Old Town—are significant; use hotel safes and monitor drinks closely.
3. Traveler Recommendations
- Plan for EES Delays
- Arrive early at border checkpoints; biometric routine may take longer initially.
- Safety & Security
- Stay informed on local alerts, avoid crowd-prone areas, and lock valuables securely.
- Travel Insurance
- Opt for comprehensive coverage, especially if participating in high-risk activities like motor sports or quad biking.
- Digital Ready
- Have proof of travel insurance, contact info, and emergency numbers accessible offline.
- Emergency Assistance
- Australian citizens can dial emergency consular services while abroad. Refer to Smartraveller for country-specific help.
Why It Matters
With the EES rollout, Europe is ushering in a new era of border security and data-driven management. This initiative aims to:
- Enhance safety
- Streamline immigration
- Monitor overstays more effectively.
Simultaneously, evolving security landscapes across Europe due to terrorism threats, civil unrest, and natural emergencies shape the travel experience. Preparation and awareness have become essential for travellers, particularly from countries like Australia that enjoy visa-exempt access.
Final Thoughts
As these enchanting destinations implement modern border processing systems via EES, travelers must be proactive. Timely planning, insurance readiness, and situational awareness are key to navigating this evolving travel environment.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
