New Rules for French Visitors
French tourists visiting the Channel Islands via ferry will soon need to abide by new travel rules.
The Channel Islands—comprised of the bailiwicks of Jersey and Guernsey—are self-governing British Crown dependencies. Following Brexit, visitors from outside the Common Travel Area (CTA) must show their passports upon arrival.
Meanwhile, on April 2, 2025, the UK started requiring international tourists to secure an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Overall, the move aims to enhance existing UK border security measures.
Until now, many French visitors had used their national ID cards for short trips to the Channel Islands. This covers day trippers from ports such as Saint-Malo and Granville. But this requirement will soon disappear.
ID Scheme for French Day-Trippers
At present, direct ferry routes from France to Jersey or Guernsey allow travel with just a French ID card.
Correspondingly, ferry company Manche Iles Express confirms that they still accept ID cards through their sea routes. Overall, this convenience supports day-trippers and spontaneous travellers alike.
However, things will shift in 2025. UK routes to the islands already require a valid passport. Soon, direct sea routes will follow suit.
ETA Needed by EU Visitors
Since April 2, 2025, all visitors–including French nationals using UK routes to reach Jersey or Guernsey–must apply for an ETA. To clarify, this includes EU citizens. The ETA is a digital permission, similar to the U.S. ESTA or Canada’s eTA.
Moreover, the ETA will remain valid for two years and allow multiple entries. Therefore, frequent travelers will benefit from this flexibility.
This new requirement aims to strengthen border security while still encouraging tourism.
Grace Period for French ID Cards
Until September 30, 2025, French travelers using direct ferries can still board with their ID cards. This transitional grace period gives regular visitors time to adjust. However, after that, passports will be mandatory for all.
Furthermore, ETA checks will soon extend to ferry routes from France.
Why These Changes?
These adjustments align with post-Brexit UK immigration policies. Overall, the goal is to standardize entry processes across all access points. As a result, French travelers must follow the same steps, whether flying or sailing.
The Channel Islands are not part of the EU or UK but follow many UK immigration rules. Consequently, the islands must adopt the ETA system in line with UK guidance.
Impact on Travel and Tourism
In time, the change may discourage spontaneous visits from French daytrippers. For instance, passport requirements and ETA applications add planning steps for potential tourists. This is especially true for families or last-minute travellers.
Manche Iles Express already asks for photographic ID when boarding. Even so, requiring a passport and ETA will raise the bar.
Meanwhile, local tourism groups are concerned about the traffic reduction. But they also acknowledge the need for better visitor data and safety.
What French Travelers Should Do
Ahead of the new requirements, French travelers should check that their passports are valid through their intended travel dates. As such, those planning future trips should renew documents soon. In addition, applications should be submitted well in advance.
Planning early will help avoid delays or boarding denials.
Key Dates to Remember
- April 2, 2025: ETA becomes mandatory for UK-route travellers to the islands.
- September 30, 2025: Last day French ID cards will be accepted for direct ferry trips.
- Autumn 2025: ETA likely required for all ferry passengers, including direct French routes.
This update marks a significant shift in cross-channel travel. Tourists should prepare now to enjoy smooth island visits later.
Photo: Facebook/Manche Iles Express
