ETIAS: Everything You Need to Know About the New European Visa
Updated May 2026
Starting in late 2026, if you're planning to travel to Europe and don't typically need a visa, you'll need an ETIAS travel authorization to enter any of the 30 countries in the Schengen Zone. It's connected to your passport and stays valid for up to three years or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. If you renew your passport, you'll also need to get a new ETIAS. With a valid ETIAS authorization, you can enter any of these European countries as often as you'd like for short-term stays — typically up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
This requirement will affect citizens from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and dozens of other countries.
ETIAS will not replace visas. Visa-required travelers will still need to apply for a visa before traveling to Europe.
The ETIAS launch depends on the Entry/Exit System (EES) which is now live.
The EES system replaces manual passport stamping with electronic records and biometric data collection, such as fingerprints and facial images, to monitor entries and exits of non-EU nationals. After years of delays, the EES began its phased rollout on October 12, 2025, and reached full implementation on April 10, 2026.
The launch of ETIAS is now anticipated for the last quarter of 2026, marking a further delay from earlier projections. ETIAS will begin only after the EES is fully implemented.
The EU will announce the specific start date several months before it goes live.
When the ETIAS system launches, there will be a transitional period.
Transitional Period: After ETIAS becomes operational, there will be a transitional period of at least six months during which travelers are encouraged to apply for an ETIAS authorization. However, during this time, entry will not be refused solely based on the absence of ETIAS, provided all other entry conditions are met.
Grace Period: Following the transitional period, a grace period of at least another six months will begin. During this phase, travelers must possess a valid ETIAS to enter participating European countries. Exceptions will be made for individuals entering Europe for the first time since the end of the transitional period, provided they meet all other entry requirements.
How do I apply for ETIAS?
You will apply online through the official ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile app. The application form will be made available on the official website once the system launches, which is expected in Q4 2026. No action is required from travelers at this point.
The application fee has been officially raised to €20, up from the originally planned €7. This change was announced by the European Commission on July 17, 2025, and reflects adjustments for inflation and administrative costs since the regulation was first adopted. Children under 18 and adults over 70 are exempt from the fee but still must submit an application.
Since your ETIAS is linked to your passport, make sure all information — name, passport number, etc. — matches exactly when you apply. Any discrepancy could prevent you from boarding your flight.
How long does it take to get ETIAS?
Most applications will be processed automatically, with a decision issued within minutes. If additional checks are needed, the review may take up to 72 hours.
The EU advises applicants to obtain ETIAS before booking flights and hotels. In some cases, applicants may be asked to provide additional information or attend an interview with national authorities, which can add up to 30 days to the process.
Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Check both documents before every trip.
Which European nations will require ETIAS?
If you're heading to any country in Europe's Schengen Zone, you'll need ETIAS. This covers 30 countries total:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and (pending confirmation) Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.
(Note: Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City operate under open-border agreements with Schengen countries and ETIAS requirements for these microstates may vary. Check the official EU website for the latest.)
Several European countries are not part of the Schengen Zone, so you won't need ETIAS to visit: Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Georgia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Türkiye, and Ukraine.
Tips for applying for ETIAS
Don't apply yet — the application portal is not open. The EU will announce the specific launch date several months in advance. Bookmark the official ETIAS website for updates.
Watch out for scam sites. There are many websites claiming to be the official ETIAS application site. Some even use the official EU logo and collect personal data. The only official ETIAS website is europa.eu/etias.
Apply well in advance once the portal opens, ideally before purchasing flights or accommodations.
Make sure your passport details match your ETIAS application exactly.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months after your intended departure from Europe.
