ETIAS, TSA, and Insurance
Resources
VISAS
Check Visa Requirements Before You Travel
Discovering the Rhine River Gorge with castles dotted along the riverbanks…
It is always the traveler’s responsibility to check whether a visa is required for entry into a country. Many countries do not require a Visa for US citizens, but some do such as Vietnam, Cambodia and Egypt.
There are several resources for US citizens to check on Visa requirements before their river cruise.
What you need to know…
ETIAS- Europe 2025
United States passport holders have long traveled throughout most of the world without having to worry about visa applications. American travelers currently have visa-free access to 184 destinations worldwide and American passports are considered the eighth most powerful in the world.
Starting in 2025 new regulations are scheduled to go into effect for the Schengen Zone. The new regulations are called the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). When the new system launches, it will require US and Canadian citizens to apply for travel authorization and receive approval prior to their departure.
ETIAS is not a visa. It only requires a quick online application, with approval delivered via email. In order to receive the authorization, visitors must fill out an online form providing details about their basic biographical information, travel plans and travel history, as well as other security questions.
Most applicants will be granted travel authorization within an hour, but if further checks are required, the process could take up to 96 hours. The application will cost about $8 (US) and is required for all travelers regardless of age. Once approved, this authorization is valid for multiple entries over the course of 3 years or until the traveler’s passport expires.
You can see a map of which countries are included in the Zone from the following website:
What you need to know…
Carry-on and Checked Baggage
It is important to know what to pack for your dream vacation before you arrive at the airport. It is always the traveler’s responsibility to inspect their own luggage and make sure that TSA (Transportation Security Administration) guidelines are being followed. If you have questions about what is allowed in your carry-on luggage and your checked luggage, please visit the website below.
TSA has specific guidelines for ammunition, alcoholic beverages, oxygen, liquids, batteries, aerosols, household tools, medical supplies, camping gear, food, etc. If you have further questions after reading the TSA website, call the airlines for additional assistance.
What you need to know…
Travel Insurance
Insurance is optional but highly recommended. It is always the traveler’s responsibility to review insurance policies and select the plan that best meets his/her financial and medical needs. Insurance is important if there is a travel delay with air, if you must cancel pre-cruise, or have a medical emergency while traveling.
Eagle Adventures LLC is not a licensed insurance agency so we cannot give you detailed information about each policy or advise you on which policy to select. We will be happy to speak with you about general insurance options.
If you live in the United States, we can offer you insurance through the river cruise vendor or through Allianz Global Assistance. Please ask for an insurance quote. You can also purchase insurance yourself. Some credit cards provide travel insurance as well.
If you live in Canada, we cannot offer you insurance. Please secure your own insurance, locally sourced. If you are not familiar with Allianz, Allianz Global Assistance has been a trusted option for many years. Check out the link below to begin your research.