As the travel season begins to approach, Americans planning trips to Europe specifically will need to take note of updated passport rules on both visa and new gender marker policies that could affect entry in some countries.
According to the United States Department of State, the Schengen Borders Agreement allows U.S citizens to travel within most of Europe for up to 90 days without a visa.
However, border checks may begin to be reinstated so travelers are still recommended to be prepared before departing from their destinations.
As a recent traveler Bobby Gutierrez ’25 shared, “I think this change affects international travelers because it offers a level of security and ways to get from one place to another.”
Additionally, under Schengens regulations, U.S. passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the traveler’s date of entry. This ensures that individuals will not be denied entry to Europe if they fail to meet said requirements.
As a group of European countries that have abolished internal borders, the Schengen area does allow American travelers to visit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Those who do plan to stay longer are required to apply for a visa specifically to the country they plan to spend the most time in.
English teacher Michael Vezzali Pascual ’88, having visited Europe in December, said, “I don’t know what it’s like now that there has been an administration change and there are new passport rules about gender, but as far as border control goes, I didn’t notice any difference at all.”
One of the latest changes affecting U.S travelers is that there is no longer an option to select “X” as a gender marker on passports in addition to “M” and “F” for male and female. While this was a step towards inclusivity, countries are no longer required to recognize it as a result of the change in administration.
While the Schengen agreement typically allows for unrestricted movement across borders, individual countries can begin to reinstate border checks. For this reason, travelers should continue to carry their passports moving through Europe.
“I think that whatever’s the safest option should be done, and whatever is convenient so that people can get from one place to another without having to worry about so many rules and laws. Also making sure that they feel safe and comfortable,” said Gutierrez.
Overall, as international travel begins to pick up in these next months, Americans planning on European vacations are encouraged to review the latest regulations to ensure smooth traveling.
