If you’re thinking about traveling to Europe next year,here are some changes for travelers from the United States of which you’ll want to be aware.

ETIAS will be required for all visa-exempt countries

Applying to the European Travel Details adn Authorization System (ETIAS), will be a new requirement for travelers coming from visa-exempt countries.

Dig deeper:

ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization that collects personal information, passport details and travel history before granting approval, according to the ETIAS website.

It will screen for any security threats using databases such as Interpol and Europol.

ETIAS application fee

Applying for ETIAS will not be free.

A fee of about €20 (about $23) for most adult travelers will be required. Applicants who are under 18 or over 70 will be exempt from paying a fee.

ETIAS application lasts for 3 years

Once an application has been approved, the travel authorization will last for three years or until a traveler’s passport has expired. The authorization grants travel access to 30 European countries that require ETIAS.

When will ETIAS requirements start?

Travelers coming from visa-exempt countries will be required to complete the pre

Countries Without a Standing Army

It’s unusual for a country to exist without a military, but several nations have chosen to forgo customary armed forces. These decisions stem from unique ancient circumstances, geopolitical strategies, and a commitment to peaceful resolutions. Here’s a look at countries that don’t have an army, and why.

Why countries Choose to Be Disarmed

Several factors contribute to a nation’s decision to remain disarmed. Often, these countries rely on treaties with other nations for defense. Some have historically avoided conflict and prioritize diplomacy. others simply lack the economic resources to maintain a military. A common thread is a belief that a standing army isn’t necessary for their security.

The Countries

• Andorra: This tiny principality nestled in the Pyrenees Mountains relies on Spain and France for defense. Thay don’t have an army, but their volunteer army is responsible for ceremonial duties.
• Costa Rica: Abolished its army in 1948, investing instead in education and healthcare. Costa Rica maintains a strong internal security force.
• Dominica: Disbanded its military in 1981, focusing on strengthening its police force and relying on regional security cooperation.
• Grenada: Following a U.S. intervention in 1983,Grenada rebuilt its security forces but hasn’t re-established a traditional army.
• Iceland: Doesn’t maintain a standing army, but it participates in NATO and has a coast guard and crisis response unit.
• Kiribati: This Pacific island nation doesn’t have a military, relying on Australia for defense support.
• Liechtenstein: Abolished its army in 1868, maintaining a small volunteer force for ceremonial purposes.
• Luxembourg: Abolished its army in 1867, but maintains a Grand Ducal Guard for ceremonial duties and a small defense force integrated into NATO.
• Macau: As a Special Administrative Region of China, defense is the responsibility of the People’s Liberation Army of China.
• Macedonia: While it has a military, it’s undergoing change and focuses on NATO interoperability.
• Malaysia: Maintains a robust security force,but doesn’t have a traditional standing army.
• marshall Islands: Relies on the United States for defense under a Compact of Free Association.
• Mauritius: Abolished its police paramilitary unit in 1979 and doesn’t maintain an army.
• Mexico: While Mexico has a large security apparatus, it doesn’t maintain a standing army in the traditional sense.
• Micronesia: Relies on the United States for defense under a Compact of free Association.
• Montenegro: Has a small military force, but it’s primarily focused on peacekeeping operations and disaster relief.
• New Zealand: Maintains a relatively small, professional defense force focused on peacekeeping and regional security.

The Future of Disarmament

The decision to remain disarmed isn’t without its challenges. These countries must navigate complex geopolitical landscapes and rely on the commitment of allies for protection. However, their examples demonstrate that a peaceful, secure existence is possible without a traditional military. It highlights the importance of diplomacy, international cooperation, and investment in social programs as alternatives to military spending.