Barcelona defeated arch-rivals Real Madrid four times in 2024/25, but Real Madrid drew blood first by triumphing over Barcelona at the Santiago Bernabeu on Sunday. Kylian Mbappé broke the deadlock for Los Blancos in the 22nd minute, and Fermín López equalized in the 38th. The final word of the half (and eventually the whole match […]

The post Real Madrid 2-1 Barcelona: Talking Points as First 2025/26 ‘El Clasico’ Goes Los Blancos Way appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Real Madrid 2-1 Barcelona: Talking Points as First 2025/26 ‘El Clasico’ Goes Los Blancos Way appeared first on Soccer News.

Understanding Schengen Area Entry Requirements: What Travelers Need to Know

Europe is one of the most sought-after travel destinations, offering diverse cultures, rich history, and seamless travel between countries. However, as part of the European Union’s (EU) efforts to enhance security and streamline travel processes, the EU has introduced a new entry and exit system (EES) for non-EU nationals, including tourists and business travelers from Australia and other countries. Here’s everything global travelers need to know about these changes and how it impacts travel plans.

Introduction of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)

The European Union’s new digital Entry/Exit System (EES) started rolling out across Schengen countries, impacting travelers from outside the EU, including Australians. This system registers all non-EU nationals entering or leaving the Schengen Area. The process, which began in 2023, will gradually be expanded across border points until full implementation by April 10, 2026.

For those traveling in and out of Europe’s Schengen countries, the new system will collect biometric data, including fingerprints and photos. Travelers will also need to answer a set of questions to ensure compliance with the Schengen Border Code, creating a digital record of their entry.

No Pre-Registration Required

One of the key points of confusion for many travelers is whether they need to pre-register for the EES. The good news is that no advance registration is needed before entering the Schengen Area. Travelers will provide their biometric data upon their first entry into the region. If you return within three years of your first visit, your biometric details will already be stored, and you only need to undergo minimal checks. This system simplifies the process of border entry but may cause longer wait times during the early stages of implementation.

Free of Charge and Secure

A common misconception circulating online is that travelers must pay to register for the EES. However, the European Union has clarified that this process is free. It’s important to be cautious of fraudulent websites that claim travelers need to pay fees. Always refer to official government websites or embassy information to avoid such scams.

Understanding Schengen Area Border Rules

The Schengen Area is made up of 29 European countries with common border control policies. Once inside the Schengen Zone, travelers can move freely without additional checks between most countries. This open-border policy makes it easier for tourists and business travelers to explore multiple countries on a single trip.

Australia has a visa-waiver agreement with most Schengen countries, allowing short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. However, the duration of stay is strictly monitored by the EES, and overstays can lead to serious consequences, such as fines or travel bans.

Schengen Visa-Free Travel for Australians

Australian citizens can travel visa-free to Schengen countries for up to 90 days, but the new system requires travelers to track their stays. If you’re planning a long stay or need to adjust your travel dates, it’s essential to keep track of the 90-day limit in every 180-day period. You can use the EU’s short-stay calculator to check your authorized travel days. If you exceed the 90 days, the EES system will flag you, and you may face penalties.

Important Passport and Visa Information

While the Schengen Area allows visa-free access for Australians for short trips, some conditions apply. Travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least three months after their intended departure from the Schengen Area. Additionally, passports must have been issued within the last 10 years.

The EES will gradually replace the need for manual passport stamps at border crossings, but travelers might still encounter stamps depending on their point of entry. If you’re traveling on multiple passports, make sure you check the entry rules for each nationality.

How Overstays Are Handled by the EES

Overstaying the allowed period in the Schengen Area can lead to serious penalties. The EES system records the entry and exit data of all travelers, and those who overstay will be flagged. Penalties for overstaying include detention, removal from the country, fines, or a ban from returning to the EU. To avoid such issues, it’s important to plan your travel carefully and keep track of the days spent in Schengen countries.

The Future: ETIAS and Enhanced Security

Looking ahead, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will launch in the final quarter of 2026. This system will apply to citizens from visa-exempt countries and will be a requirement for entry into the Schengen Area. However, ETIAS will not replace the EES, which collects biometric data. Travelers should stay informed about both systems to ensure they comply with all entry requirements when traveling to Europe.

Traveling Smart: Tips for Schengen Area Visitors

As you prepare for your European trip, here are some tips to ensure smooth travel:

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay.
• Stay within the 90-day limit to avoid penalties and complications.
• Check for any new rules or travel advisories from official EU websites.
• Familiarize yourself with the EU’s visa-waiver agreements to understand your options.

By following these guidelines, you can navigate the new entry system and enjoy your time exploring Europe.

The post Understanding Schengen Area Entry Requirements: What Travelers Need to Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The European Commission has accused TikTok and Meta of breaching the EU’s strict transparency laws under the Digital Services Act (DSA). The authority claims that the two popular social media platforms have made it difficult for researchers to access public data and for users to report illegal content or challenge moderation decisions. Both companies are hereby taken into legal custody.

TikTok and Meta face EU scrutiny for transparency breach

As per the commission’s preliminary review, TikTok and Meta have imposed complicated steps that hinder the researchers from studying how their respective platforms operate. The officials have also argued that such barriers prevent them from analyzing how the platforms are used, especially by minors, and that the users are exposed to harmful and illegal materials.

The DSA, for reference, mandates that the large tech companies must make their data easily accessible to qualified researchers. Both Meta and TikTok have failed to do so. The regulators believe that they may be undermining efforts to keep digital ecosystems accountable. If the commission’s allegations are proven right in the court of law, the companies could face fines worth billions.

Both companies may face an industry-wide ripple effect

Meta has responded to the allegations by claiming that it has already adjusted its systems in line with DSA. New reporting options and data access tools have been added. An official spokesperson stated that the company “disagrees with any suggestion” of a violation and continues discussions with EU officials. Further, TikTok is yet to publicly comment but is expected to submit a formal response soon.

If the commission upholds its findings, the companies could face a penalty of up to 6% of their annual revenue. Several other tech giants, including Apple, have earlier objected to the Digital Services Act. But regardless, they abided by the rule, and the final decision could reshape how these companies handle transparency worldwide.

The post EU Warns TikTok & Meta Could Face Heavy Fines for Transparency Breach appeared first on Android Headlines.

MiCA has given Europe a uniquely strong position to establish the regulatory gold standard for crypto, says Malta Financial Services Authority CEO Kenneth Farrugia, but regulators must work quickly and collaboratively to preserve the region’s advantage.