All the visa and border changes you need to know if you're heading abroad in 2026

More countries are transforming their border and immigration systems to enhance efficiency and security.

Corporate Traveller global managing director Tom Walley says some of the most frequented international destinations such as Europe, the US, the UK and China are introducing significant changes to the application and entry process, and "it's critical that travellers are aware".

"While the cost associated with these new electronic authorisations, or e-visas, is mostly relatively small, the consequences of being unaware of this requirement could be significant, particularly for travellers on tight schedules," Walley says.

Europe: Tourists entering Europe's Schengen Area (29 countries including France, Italy, Norway, Spain and Sweden) for short stays must now have their details recorded and fingerprints taken under the Entry/Exit System (EES). You do not need to take any action before you arrive at the border, and there is no cost for EES registration.

In late 2026, an additional European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) pre-entry screening process will be implemented. The cost and further details are yet to be released.

UK: Australian passport holders entering the UK need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for about $33. It needs to be obtained prior to travel and allows stays in the country for up to six months.

US: People holidaying for less than 90 days who are not covered by the US Global Entry program (available to pre-approved, low-risk, frequent travellers to the US - mainly business travellers) may be eligible to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and enter the US under the Visa Waiver Program. Applications cost about $60 and should be submitted at least 72 hours prior to departure.

Canada: The Canadian government is preparing to overhaul its Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system with new biometric technology, which will require travellers to provide a high-quality scan of their passport. The cost is expected to rise for Australians from the current rate of about $8, some time in 2026.

China: Australians travelling to China for tourism are now eligible to travel visa-free for up to 30 days until the end of 2026.

South Korea: Australian passport holders can travel to South Korea for stays of up to 90 days without applying for a Korea Electronic Travel Authorization (K-ETA) or visa waiver until the end of 2026.

Japan: Walley warns travellers to put 2028 on their radar for a possible Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA), which would be modelled on the US's ESTA system and would apply to Australians.

Indonesia/Bali: At least 48 hours before arriving in Indonesia, tourists should complete an arrival card and apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA). If you fail to do this, you can still apply for a regular Visa on Arrival (VOA) at certain international airports. The e-VOA and VOA cost $45, with the e-VOA charging an additional small fee for online processing.

Brazil: Brazil has reintroduced the need for Australians to apply for a visa, which will be valid for multiple entries over five years for up to 90 days at a time, costing roughly $125, Walley says.

Tourist taxes are another important entry requirement to factor into your planning. According to Intrepid Travel managing director ANZ, Brett Mitchell, these taxes are designed to protect cultural heritage, manage overtourism and ensure destinations "remain vibrant for generations to come".

"Our overall advice for Aussies is to stay prepared, stay informed, and know that these changes are ultimately for the greater good," he says.

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Mitchell advises Venice is charging day-trippers up to 10 euros ($18) on peak days, Greece has cruise fees of up to 20 euros for Santorini and Mykonos, and in Spain, Barcelona's nightly surcharge is possibly rising to 5 euros.

"Edinburgh's launching a 5 per cent accommodation levy in July," he says. "In Southeast Asia, Thailand's the one to watch with its new 300 baht entry fee from February 2026."