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Amid new taxes, digital arrival cards, adjustments to visas, and increased administrative fees, several key destinations are adjusting their rules. French travelers should notably watch for a fee in Tanzania, the widespread implementation of an Arrival Card in Indonesia and Laos, as well as an increase in the cost of ESTA for the United States. In the background, the Schengen area is preparing the EES, a biometric entry/exit system for third-country nationals. Here’s an overview of essential information and deadlines to keep in mind for planning your travel at the end of 2025.
Changes in travel procedures: new updates for French citizens!
This end-of-year return brings to the forefront the processes related to the passport, visa, and electronic authorizations. Several countries are adjusting their formalities to streamline arrivals, enhance border control, or finance airport services. French travelers, whether heading to East Africa, Southeast Asia, or North America, need to incorporate these changes into their schedules and budgets, especially as the periods of increased traveler influx around Labor Day 2025 heighten pressure on flights and border services.
Tanzania: a new passenger fee for international flights
Following the trend of other regional hubs, Tanzania introduces a passenger facilitation fee, known as Tax VI. Established since August 15, 2025, it will apply to all international passengers traveling from November 1, 2025. Expect to pay 45 dollars (approximately €38.75) for a one-way trip and 90 dollars (approximately €77.50) for a round trip. This measure, passed on by airlines or included in the ticket depending on the case, directly affects the overall travel cost. Passengers should verify the fare breakdown of their booking, especially for multi-leg travels.
Indonesia: “All Indonesia”, the mandatory digital arrival card
Heading to Asia with Indonesia, which is rolling out a digital Arrival Card called All Indonesia. Already mandatory since September 1 for arrivals at the airports of Bali Denpasar Ngurah Rai (DPS), Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta (CGK), and Surabaya Juanda (SUB), it will be required at all entry points in the country (airports, ports, land crossings) starting October 1. The form, free, must be filled out within three days prior to travel and generates a QR code to present upon arrival. The e-visa (or visa) remains necessary to enter Indonesia. Meanwhile, the health declaration Satusehat and customs declaration e-CD will no longer be required as the arrival card becomes effective (on September 1 at the mentioned airports, and then October 1 at all borders). This simplification accompanies a broader regional dynamic, also driven by dedicated travel campaigns focused on Chinese landscapes that stimulate combined itineraries in Asia.
Laos: “Arrival Register” and a reminder about passport validity
In Laos, an electronic arrival card, the Arrival Register, has replaced the paper arrival/departure form since September 1. The procedure is completed within two days prior to arrival on the official portal of the Laotian authorities (immigration.gov.la), and then a QR code is issued for immigration passage. French citizens are still subject to visa to enter Laos, and the validity of the passport must exceed the departure date from the country by at least six months. The e-visa before departure is recommended to limit uncertainties; the visa on arrival remains possible, but its issuance is not guaranteed, and wait times may be extended.
United States: increase in ESTA fees and I-94 costs
Across the Atlantic, travelers benefiting from the Visa Waiver Program will see ESTA fees rise from 21 dollars to 40 dollars starting September 30, 2025, a nearly 90 % increase. To obtain an ESTA at the 21 USD rate, one must apply before September 30. Remember that the authorization is valid for two years, but must be renewed in case of any changes in situation (identity, passport, answers to the questionnaire, etc.) or if the passport’s validity does not meet this duration. At the land border, the fees for the I-94 form will also rise from 6 dollars to 30 dollars starting September 30. Travelers who have stayed in Cuba since January 12, 2021 (or wish to go there before entering the United States) are not eligible for the ESTA and must request a visa from the Embassy. These changes will affect travel arrangements, including for popular getaways like the Labor Day trips in Kentucky, especially as sector forecasts leading up to Labor Day anticipate high demand and longer wait times at customs.
Schengen Area: EES coming for third-country nationals
Finally, the European Union plans to gradually deploy the EES (Entry/Exit System) in the Schengen area starting October 12, 2025, with a full roll-out announced for April 10, 2026. This system will digitally and automatically record the entries and exits of non-European travelers (whether they are subject to short-stay visa or exempted), replacing the traditional stamps in passports. An online portal will allow affected visitors to track their remaining days on their authorized stay. For French citizens, the key is to be aware of this measure when traveling with non-European relatives, hosting foreign partners, or conducting business trips involving third-country teams.
Trends and practical details to incorporate into planning
Beyond the texts, the on-the-ground experience remains subject to seasonal flows. The periods of heavy traffic around Labor Day 2025 may lengthen wait times at customs, encourage early digital registration (arrival cards, forms), and advocate for additional time margins during connections. On the accommodation side, some travelers now slip a bed bug detector at 7 dollars into their bags, reflecting heightened vigilance during tourist peak times. In Asia as in America, offices and sector actors boost appetite for departure through special operations — from campaigns inspired by Chinese landscapes to popular North American itineraries— all serving as useful indicators to anticipate demand and calibrate one’s itinerary.
