Are you planning a trip to Europe and wondering, “What is ETIAS?” You’re not alone! ETIAS is a new requirement for travelers who generally don’t need a visa to enter most European countries.
The program is an initiative of the European Union and was set to begin in 2024, but it has been delayed several times. The latest delay was announced in September 2023, pushing the launch to May 2025.
In this post, we will explore everything you need to know about ETIAS, including the online application, cost, who needs one, and how the new requirement will change the experience of traveling to Europe.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is short for European Travel Information and Authorization System. While it’s not exactly a visa, ETIAS is a new travel requirement for travelers who don’t need a visa to enter the European Union territory.
The purpose of the program is to enhance the security and border control of the 30 countries within the Schengen Area (see below).
The electronic authorization will be linked to your passport and be valid for up to three years. However, if your passport expires before this period, you’ll need to apply again for ETIAS after renewing your passport.
Who Needs ETIAS?
If you hail from one of the 60 countries that don’t require a visa for short stays in Europe, you’ll need an ETIAS. This list includes the United States, United Kingdom, Albania, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and Singapore, among others. See all the countries below.
So, if you’re planning a short trip to Europe -less than 90 days in a 180-day period-, whether for vacation, business, or just transit, you’ll need to get the ETIAS travel authorization.
ETIAS Application Process
Once the system is operational, applying for an ETIAS should be a straightforward process. Simply fill out the application form using either the official ETIAS website or mobile application.
The application requires information such as:
- Name, date and place of birth, nationality, home address, parents first names, email address, and phone number;
- Passport or travel document details;
- Level of education and current occupation;
- Intended travel plans;
- Details about any criminal convictions;
- Any past travels to war or conflict zones.
The application process shouldn’t take more than 20 minutes to complete. However, it could take longer if you need to add more information than the basic requirements.
ETIAS Cost
The fee for the ETIAS visa is set at €7 for applicants aged 18 and over, while it is free for minors, making it more accessible for families. Once the program is in effect, you will be able to pay online via credit or debit card.
And here’s some good news: travelers under 18 or above 70 years old don’t need to pay the application fee.
ETIAS Application Approval
After you apply for an ETIAS visa, your application will be checked against different databases for security purposes. While most people will get approved in a few minutes, in some cases, it might take up to 96 hours.
So, while many will enjoy a swift approval, it’s wise to apply well in advance of your travel dates to navigate any potential delays in the process.
For instance, you may need to provide more information or documents, and even an interview to be approved. All these extra steps could take up to 30 days.
The best approach would be to secure your ETIAS first, and then finalize your travel plans.
Be Aware of Scams
Although it is best to apply directly on the ETIAS website or app, you could use a travel agency or company to take care of your application. However, ensure that whatever company you hire charges you a reasonable fee for their service.
The EU will have a specific page on its travel website to report any case of fraud. Also, make sure to check if ETIAS is open for applications before hiring any travel agency or commercial intermediary.
How ETIAS Will Change European Travel
For travelers who are used to planning their European trip without thinking about any other requirement but their passport, ETIAS will add a new item to their checklist.
The implementation of this new travel authorization by the European Union is a measure of security to have a better idea of who is coming and going through the Schengen territory.
There will still be regular controls upon arrival, but with ETIAS, authorities will be able to deny entry to the EU even before someone embarks on a trip.
Another novelty will be no more stamps on passports. Every time you enter and leave the EU, that information will be stored electronically on the EES system, which means “Entry Exit System.”
The EES system will collect and record not only the information from your passport but also biometric data like your facial image and fingerprints.
So, yes, the process of entering the EU will be a bit more complicated, but visiting the beautiful cities and amazing natural and historic places throughout the European territory is certainly worth some extra steps.
In Summary
ETIAS is a new travel authorization requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling to any of the 30 European countries in the Schengen Area.
The application process is simple and straightforward, and the cost of applying is €7. The system is designed to improve security and border control in Europe by pre-screening travelers before they arrive.
If you plan to travel to Europe in the future, it is important to be aware of the new ETIAS requirement and to apply for it, if necessary.
