If your New Year's resolution is to travel more, there are some requirements taking effect this year to keep in mind.
The first requirement is Real ID. You need to make sure your identification is up to date because starting May 7th, the use of REAL ID will be enforced at airports and some federal facilities. U.S. travelers must be REAL ID compliant in order to board domestic flights.
And starting next Wednesday, January 8th, there will be an expansion of Electronic Travel Authorization, or ETA program. This will impact people headed to the United Kingdom. A $13 registration will be required so UK authorities can screen visitors before arrival. This is not a visa and does not replace any existing visa requirements. You can apply through the UK government's official website or download and use the ETA app.
Also, the European Union’s Travel Information and Authorisation System, or ETIAS, is expected to finally take effect in May. This is important as it means US passport holders will now need to apply for authorization through this platform before visiting Europe.