Essential Information on the Upcoming ETIAS Requirement for Travelers to Europe

After multiple delays, EU officials have announced the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) regulation, set to launch in 2025. Initially planned for late 2023, this system will require advance planning from travelers visiting Europe.

You’ve prepared your travel itinerary, made reservations at favorite dining spots, but now there’s an additional essential task to anticipate when planning your European trip.

Beginning in spring 2025, visa-exempt travelers from around 30 European countries will be required to complete an application for ETIAS.

Understanding ETIAS

The ETIAS is essentially a background check aimed at fortifying the borders of countries within Europe’s Schengen Zone. Although not a visa, it shares similarities with ESTA, a visa-waiver program used in the United States since 2008. The ETIAS process involves online registration and a minor application fee, enhancing security for all travelers.

Moreover, notes of passport stamps will become a thing of the past, as facial recognition and fingerprints will be recorded in this new digital system. This initiative is expected to lead to shorter waiting times at entry points and create a seamless travel experience, as confirmed by officials.

Consequently, this security measure will affect around 1.4 billion travelers from over 60 countries, including the United States.

While the ETIAS application might initially seem overwhelming, it represents just a small hurdle in your travel planning journey. Travelers should focus more on the increasing frequency of heat waves impacting southern Europe during late spring and summer, as well as the challenges posed by overtourism in cities like Amsterdam and Venice. By contrast, completing the ETIAS application should be efficient and straightforward.

Who Needs to Apply for ETIAS?

Holders of passports from approximately 60 countries, including the US, Canada, Mexico, and the UK, will need ETIAS authorization for short-term stays. The EU defines a short-term stay as any visit lasting up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Travelers without ETIAS authorization may be denied entry at the border.

How to Apply

Once the ETIAS application is available online, travelers can fill out the digital form, which should take around 10 minutes. You’ll need a current travel document, like a passport, and personal information, including contact details, parental names, educational background, job details, and specifics about your accommodation. Additionally, you must disclose any past legal issues or travel to conflict areas.

Application Fee

For applicants aged 18 to 70, the non-refundable fee is €7 (approximately $8), payable by card. Those younger than 18 or older than 70, as well as family members of EU citizens, will not incur this fee.

Timing Your Application

EU officials advise submitting your ETIAS application prior to booking any travel arrangements, ideally at least one month before your planned trip. While most applications will be processed within minutes, some may take up to four days or more if further information is requested.

Applying Without Travel Plans

Yes, you can apply for ETIAS even without specific travel arrangements, but you’ll need to specify your intended country of stay. Once approved, you can alter your travel plans and visit any of the 30 countries requiring ETIAS authorization.

Approval Notification

After submitting your ETIAS application, you will receive two emails. The first confirms successful submission, while the second notifies you regarding the authorization decision.

Duration of ETIAS Authorization

ETIAS authorization will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You may freely enter and exit ETIAS-required countries, provided your travel doesn’t exceed the short-term stay limitation.

Essential ETIAS Documentation

While it’s not necessary to print your ETIAS confirmation, bringing the passport linked to your authorization is crucial. Ensure that all details on your passport and ETIAS authorization match before traveling. Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least three months post-departure.

Application Denial Concerns

Should your application be denied, you’ll receive a notification explaining the reason and guidance on how to appeal the decision. To minimize the risk of rejection, review your application carefully to avoid errors, such as misspellings. Even a small mistake can jeopardize your travel plans.

This article was first published on Jul 31, 2023, and has been updated as of Oct 27, 2023.