European travelers get guidance on digital airport checks, flight compensation and jewelry customs

Germany’s parliament has approved a law that expands digital passenger processing at airports. Travelers are now expected to use smartphones, self‑service kiosks or biometric identification for check‑in and boarding, although airlines must still guarantee a smooth journey. Existing EU flight‑delay compensation rules remain unchanged, offering €250‑€600 per passenger for delays of three hours or more when the airline is at fault.

ARAG legal expert Tobias Klingelhöfer advises holidaymakers to document any deficiencies in package tours promptly, keep receipts and photos, and to claim refunds or cancellations in line with EU passenger‑rights legislation.

In Austria, Volksanwältin Gaby Schwarz warns that bringing valuable jewellery back from non‑EU countries can trigger import duties unless proper proof of prior ownership is presented. She recommends travelling with invoices, clear photographs or an INF3 information sheet to demonstrate that the items were already in Austria, noting the general customs allowance of €300 (€430 by air). The finance ministry has published the relevant guidelines online to help travellers and customs officers alike.