While everyone traveling on an international tour with EF is required to have a passport, it’s important to note that when it comes to documentation, each destination and each traveler’s needs are unique.
What to know about passports & visas
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Passports
Required for every traveler on all international EF tours
Remember that the passport application and renewal process can take up to 14 weeks.
Must be valid for at least six months after your tour’s return date
Must have at least three blank pages
Traveler name must match what’s listed in your EF account
We use travelers’ passport information to book flights—so their first, middle, and last names must perfectly match.
Visas & requirements for non-US citizens
Your child's visa and entry requirement section in their individual traveler account is a great place to start when determining if a visa is required, but we always recommend confirming this with government sources. You will get access to your account after enrolling, and visa information provided by EF is for U.S. passport holders only. All travelers are responsible for obtaining the necessary visas or travel documents for all locations visited on the tour.
Please note: Visa requirements do apply even if travelers only have a short layover or a stop at the airport in a particular destination. Travelers should inquire at relevant embassies and/or consulates two weeks before departure to ensure that requirements haven’t changed. For instance, if you are flying to Madrid via Frankfurt, check with both the German and Spanish embassies.
New European travel requirements
As of January 8, 2025, travelers of specific nationalities whose tour visits any country in the United Kingdom (England, Scotland, Wales or Norther Ireland) are required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). The European Union has announced they will follow a similar authorization (called ETIAS) with the timeline of implementation yet to be solidified. It is important to review your child's itinerary for any necessary visas or travel authorizations, a great place to start is in the visa and entry requirements page in your individual traveler account after you enroll.
Beginning October 12, 2025, the European Union began rolling out the Entry and Exit System (EES), which will eventually replace manual stamps in passports. As part of this new system, travelers may be asked to provide proof of international medical insurance and proof of accommodation. As accommodation is provided on EF Tours, this requirement is met. For those travelers who have purchased Global Travel Protection, the medical insurance requirement is also fulfilled. It is important to take proof of purchase, which will be sent by email, with you on your tour. Purchase of Global Travel Protection may be completed up until three days prior to departure. Those travelers who wish to purchase a different international medical policy should ensure it meets the necessary requirements of the countries they visit on tour. Check out our quick video about the new EES here.