The EU's New Travel Authorisation - What You Need to Know
ETIAS is coming. If you hold a US, UK, Canadian, Australian or Japanese passport, you will need one before visiting Europe. Here is everything you need to know, and we will tell you the moment applications open.
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The Basics
What is ETIAS - and why does it exist?
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is the EU's new pre-travel screening system. Think of it as Europe's version of the US ESTA or the UK ETA - a mandatory digital check before you board your flight.
It's Not a Visa
ETIAS does not replace your visa-free access to Europe. If your passport currently lets you visit Europe without a visa, that does not change. ETIAS is simply a pre-registration that lets the EU screen travellers before they arrive.
Linked to Your Passport
Once approved, your ETIAS is digitally linked to your passport. No stickers, no stamps, no paper documents to carry. Just travel with the same passport you used to apply.
Multiple Trips, Three Years
One ETIAS covers unlimited trips to any of the 30 Schengen countries for three years, or until your passport expires. You only need to reapply when your ETIAS or passport runs out.
Fast Approval - Usually
The EU expects most ETIAS applications to be approved automatically within minutes. A small number of cases will require manual review, which can take up to 30 days in complex situations.
Who It Affects
You'll need ETIAS if you hold one of these passports
ETIAS applies to nationals of 60+ countries who currently do not need a visa to visit the Schengen Area. That includes some of the world's most common passport holders.
Key Facts
Everything in numbers
Here are the confirmed details from the European Commission.
The Process
How to get your ETIAS - step by step
The application process is designed to be simple and entirely online. Here is what to expect.
Check if you need one
ETIAS applies to nationals of 60+ countries who currently visit Europe visa-free. EU citizens, existing EU residents, and people with Schengen visas are exempt.
Fill in the online application
Enter your personal details, passport information, and answer a short set of background questions. No embassy visit, no biometrics, no supporting documents needed.
Pay the application fee
A small fee is paid online by card at the time of application. It is non-refundable whether your application is approved or refused. Fee waivers apply for certain age groups.
Receive your approval by email
You will get an email confirming your ETIAS is approved. It is digitally linked to your passport. No printing needed. Just travel with the same passport.
Travel freely for three years
Your single ETIAS covers every trip to any of the 30 Schengen countries for three years. No need to reapply unless your passport expires or your ETIAS runs out.
Timeline
When is ETIAS launching?
ETIAS has been delayed several times. Here is the confirmed status as of early 2026.
Questions
Common questions answered
Everything travellers are asking about ETIAS.
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