What Is ETIAS? Your Guide to Europe’s New Travel Authorization System
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is the European Union’s upcoming electronic travel authorization, similar to systems used in the U.S. (ESTA), Canada, and Australia. It will be required for travelers from visa-exempt countries before visiting Europe’s Schengen Area.
🚨 Update:
The launch of ETIAS has been postponed to mid-2025 at the earliest. Additional delays are possible.
✅ Who Needs ETIAS?
If you are a citizen of a visa-free country traveling to Europe for tourism, business, or short-term study (up to 90 days in any 180-day period), you’ll need an ETIAS before departure.
Each traveler — including children — must apply separately.
🌍 Countries That Require ETIAS:
Citizens of 60+ countries, including the U.S., UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and Brazil, will need ETIAS.
Click here for the full list ➜
🧾 What ETIAS Requires:
To apply, you’ll need:
- A valid biometric passport (valid for at least 3 months after your departure from Europe)
- An email address and internet connection
- A credit or debit card to pay the €7 fee (free for travelers under 18 or over 70)
Application Information Includes:
- Full name, date of birth, nationality, and contact info
- Passport details
- Intended country of entry
- Education and occupation
- Family details (if relevant)
- Travel history and security background (e.g., criminal records, travel to conflict zones)
Your information will be cross-checked with EU security databases. Most applications are expected to be approved within minutes, but some may require additional documentation.
🕒 How Long Is ETIAS Valid?
- Valid for 3 years (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first)
- Multiple entries allowed during the validity period
- Stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period
✈️ Airlines and Carriers Will Check ETIAS
Airlines and sea carriers are required to verify your ETIAS approval before boarding. No ETIAS = no travel.
🌐 ETIAS Applies to These Countries:
Schengen Member States:
Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
Also includes:
Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City
Coming soon: ETIAS will also apply to Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania once they fully join the Schengen system.
🗺️ Countries Whose Citizens Will Need ETIAS:
(Partial list — full list available on the official EU site)
- North America: United States, Canada, Mexico
- South America: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Peru
- Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore
- Caribbean & Others: Bahamas, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, UAE, Israel, UK
⚠️ Final Notes:
ETIAS is not a visa, but an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals. It ensures additional security screening before arrival in Europe and aims to make travel safer and more efficient.
Last Revision: March 2025.