Starting in 2025, travellers from certain countries will need to apply for the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering the European Union (EU). If you’re planning a trip to any EU country, here’s everything you need to know to get prepared.
Top Tips for Travellers Researching ETIAS
- ETIAS is Mandatory from 2025 If you’re from a visa-exempt country (like the UK, USA, Canada and Australia) you’ll need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before you travel to the EU.
- Fast and Cheap ETIAS applications are easy and only €7 for travelers 18-70, free for minors and seniors. Most are processed in minutes but allow up to 4 days to be safe.
- For Short Stays Only ETIAS is for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180 day period so it’s perfect for tourism and business trips but not long-term stays.
- Check Your Passport Is Valid Your ETIAS is linked to your passport and will expire in 3 years or when your passport does—whichever is first.
- Don’t Confuse ETIAS with a Visa ETIAS is for security purposes only and isn’t a visa or for extended or work-related stays. Apply well in advance of your trip!
Read the full blog for more tips and ensure your next European adventure starts smoothly!
Tour Guides Top tip
Denisa Blue Badge Tour Guide
Don’t leave it to the last minute to apply! Most applications are processed within minutes, but some may take up to 96 hours.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is a new travel authorization system that will allow visa-exempt visitors to the EU to travel freely for short stays (up to 90 days) without needing a full visa. The ETIAS travel authorization is a mandatory requirement for visa-free travellers to Europe, ensuring pre-screening before making travel plans.
It’s similar to the ESTA for travellers going to the United States, but for Europe.
Why is ETIAS being introduced?
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is being introduced to bolster the security of the European Union’s borders and enhance the safety of its citizens and visitors. This new authorization system is designed to identify potential security risks before they enter the EU. By implementing ETIAS, the EU aims to improve its ability to detect and prevent terrorist threats, reduce the risk of illegal immigration, and combat organized crime. The ETIAS authorization will serve as a crucial tool in maintaining the integrity and safety of European travel.
Who Needs to Apply for ETIAS?
ETIAS registration will affect travellers from non-EU countries that currently don’t require a visa to visit the EU, emphasizing its importance for accessing the Schengen Zone. If you come from one of these countries, you’ll need to apply for ETIAS before your trip.
Credit www.etias.com
Countries that will need ETIAS:
- Albania
- Antigua & Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Dominica
- El Salvador
- Georgia
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Hong Kong
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Macao
- North Macedonia
- Malaysia
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Micronesia
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- Palau
- Panama
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Saint Kitts & Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent
- Samoa
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- Timor Leste
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tuvalu
- Uruguay
- Ukraine
- UAE
- Vanuatu
- Venezuela
- United Kingdom
- United States
Who Doesn’t Need to Apply?
You do not need ETIAS if you are:
- An EU citizen or national
- A citizen of a country already requiring a full visa for entry to the EU
- A resident of the EU
- Travelling to the EU for business, work, or other long-term stays
It is important to note that while most European countries are part of the Schengen Zone, some are not and may have different requirements.
Tour Guides Top tip
Denisa Blue Badge Tour Guide
Use the official EU website to apply. Do not give your details to any third parties
How to Apply for ETIAS Application:
Visit the ETIAS website: You will need to apply online via the official ETIAS website. There is no need to visit an embassy or consulate.
Fill out the application form: The form will ask for basic details, including:
Your name, date of birth, and passport information
Your travel plans (intended country of arrival in the EU)
Security questions to check for any risks (related to health, criminal records, or immigration violations)
Provide personal biometric data: This includes essential information such as your name, gender, and date of birth, which is critical for the application submission.
Pay the fee: The application fee is 7 euros for travellers aged 18-70. For those under 18 or over 70, the application is free of charge.
Wait for approval: Most ETIAS applications are processed within minutes. However, you may need to wait up to 96 hours (4 days) for a decision. In rare cases, you may be asked for additional documentation.
Receive your ETIAS authorization: Once approved, your ETIAS will be electronically linked to your passport. You do not need to carry a physical copy. Approval is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Cost of ETIAS
7 euros for applicants between 18 and 70 years old.
Free for children under 18 and adults over 70.
Validity of ETIAS
ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever occurs first.
When Do You Need to Apply for ETIAS?
ETIAS will be mandatory starting in 2025. However, you can apply as early as possible, ideally at least 72 hours before your trip, to ensure approval.
While most applications are processed quickly, it’s always a good idea to apply ahead of time in case there are any issues. In rare cases, the processing time may extend up to four weeks if additional documentation is needed.
ETIAS vs. Schengen Visa: What’s the Difference?
ETIAS is for short-term travellers from visa-exempt countries. It’s a simple travel authorization that doesn’t involve a visa. ETIAS will affect travellers from countries currently enjoying visa-free access to the EU, requiring them to obtain an electronic authorisation before entering.
A Schengen Visa is for travellers from countries that do need a visa to enter the EU. It allows longer stays and more flexibility for travel within the Schengen Area.
Benefits of the ETIAS Authorization System
The ETIAS authorization system offers numerous benefits for both the European Union and its visitors. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Enhanced border security: ETIAS will strengthen the EU’s borders by identifying potential security risks and preventing them from entering the region.
- Improved safety: By mitigating the risks of terrorist threats, illegal immigration, and organized crime, ETIAS will contribute to a safer environment for both EU citizens and visitors.
- Streamlined travel process: The ETIAS application process is designed to be quick and straightforward, with most applications being processed within minutes.
- Increased efficiency: ETIAS will reduce the administrative burden on European nations, allowing them to focus on more pressing security concerns.
- Better data sharing: ETIAS will facilitate the sharing of data between EU member states, helping to identify and prevent potential security risks.
- Increased transparency: The ETIAS system will provide a clear and transparent process for travellers, reducing confusion and uncertainty.
- Improved customer experience: With a user-friendly online application process, ETIAS will make it easier for travellers to apply for their travel authorization.
Overall, the ETIAS authorization system is designed to provide a safe, secure, and efficient way for travellers to visit Europe, while also enhancing the overall security of the European Union.
What Happens if You Don’t Apply for ETIAS?
If you don’t apply for ETIAS or your application is rejected, you won’t be able to enter the EU. It’s essential to ensure you have an approved ETIAS before boarding your flight to any EU country.
Conclusion:
ETIAS is a simple and affordable way for travellers to visit the EU starting in 2025. As long as you follow the application process, you should have no trouble securing your travel authorization before your trip. Be sure to check your passport’s expiration date, apply ahead of time, and stay updated on any changes to the system as the deadline approaches.
If you’re looking to visit the UK as well check out our London Travel Guide.
If you need some help planning your trip feel free to Contact Us!
Frequently Asked Questions about EU ETIAS
You can stay in the EU for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. ETIAS is only valid for short stays, so it’s not for long-term travel, work, or study.
No. Once approved, ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this three-year period, travellers will not need to reapply for each trip, allowing for multiple entries into Europe as long as each stay does not exceed the allowed duration. However, you’ll need to apply for a new ETIAS if you get a new passport.
No, ETIAS is not a visa. It’s a travel authorization for visa-exempt travellers. You will still be allowed to stay for short periods (up to 90 days), but it’s not a visa for longer stays.
Yes, ETIAS is valid for all countries in the Schengen Area, which includes most EU member states and some non-EU countries like Norway, Switzerland, and Iceland.
If your application is denied, you’ll be informed why. You can appeal the decision or apply for a Schengen Visa if you still need to travel to the EU.
Yes, both are separate schemes, if you are visiting the UK and the EU you may require both an ETIAS and an ETA. You can read more in our handy guide to the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation.
I am travelling to france in december 2024vand staying into 2025 do l or can l apply for an etais visa.
Dear Lesley,
If you’re traveling to France in December 2024 and staying into 2025, you won’t need to apply for ETIAS just yet. The system is expected to start in mid 2025, but the exact launch date hasn’t been confirmed.
Denisa
How do over 70s go about getting into Schengen countries when they don’t need to apply for Etias
Hi Ian,
visitors who are over 70 years old still have to apply for ETIAS but they are exempt from paying the fee.
Denisa
Hi. I need to traveling for next year to shengen area to Switzerland free. Or charging. I need to know. Thanks
Hi,
If you’re traveling to Switzerland in 2025 and are from a visa-exempt country (like the U.S., UK, or Australia), you will likely need an ETIAS travel authorisation. The system is expected to become mandatory in 2025, though the exact start date hasn’t been confirmed yet.
Once implemented, you’ll need to apply online before your trip. The process is quick, costs €7, and the approval is valid for up to three years or until your passport expires. Be sure to check for updates closer to your travel date.
Will we need ETIAS if cruising, this issue doesn’t seem to have been mentioned at all whenever I have searched sites
Hi Maureen,
Whether you’ll need ETIAS when cruising depends on your itinerary and the countries you visit during the cruise:
If your cruise includes stops in Schengen Area countries (e.g., France, Spain, Italy, or Greece):
You will likely need ETIAS if you disembark and plan to explore, even for short day trips.
If your cruise only passes through Schengen waters without stops:
ETIAS may not be required.
To be safe, check your cruise’s specific itinerary and confirm with the cruise line or official travel resources closer to your departure. Once ETIAS is implemented (expected in mid 2025), it’s better to have it ready if your trip involves Schengen Area countries.
Denisa