ETIAS: Everything You Need to Know About the New European Visa
Updated December 30, 2024
Starting in 2025, 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 travel 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, 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 implementation of the ETIAS will follow the launch of the Entry/Exit System (EES).
The EES system will replace 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. The EES system was scheduled to become operational on Nov. 10. 2024 but due to technical and logistical challenges its implementation was postponed. A new date has not been announced.
The good news is the ETIAS will not become mandatory for six months after the EES system is operational.
When the ETIAS system is launched 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 travel authorization. However, during this time, entry will not be refused solely based on the absence of an ETIAS authorization, provided all other entry conditions are met.
· Grace Period: Following the transitional period, a grace period of at least another six months will commence. During this phase, travelers must possess an ETIAS travel authorization to enter the 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 can apply for ETIAS online through the official website or through the ETIAS mobile app. The application fee is €7. All travelers will need to submit an application regardless of age. Children under 18 and adults over 70 years old will be able to apply for free.
ETIAS will start taking applications during the first half of 2025. Keep this in mind if you already have a trip scheduled for later in the year.
Since your ETIAS is linked to your passport, make sure when you apply, all the information such as your name, passport number, etc all matches. If there’s a discrepancy with this information, you may not be allowed to board your flight.
How long does it take to get ETIAS?
Most applications are processed within minutes. However, it is possible that your application may take longer to process. If so, you will receive a decision within four days.
Once approved, your ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Be sure to double check both documents ahead of your future trips.
“We strongly advise you to obtain the ETIAS travel authorization before you buy your tickets and book your hotels. Most applications will be processed within minutes and at the latest within 96 hours. However, some applicants may be asked to provide additional information or documentation or to participate in an interview with national authorities, which may take up to [an] additional 30 days,” the European Union states in the FAQ section of its ETIAS page.
Which European nations will require ETIAS?
If you’re heading to any country in Europe’s Schengen Zone, you’ll need to register for the new travel authorization. This applies to 23 EU countries, six non-EU countries, and three micro-states—32 destinations in total. Here’s where you’ll need ETIAS to enter:
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Croatia
Czech Republic
Denmark
Estonia
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Iceland
Italy
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta
Monaco
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
Romania
San Marino
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
Vatican City
However, plenty of European countries aren’t part of the Schengen Zone—mostly in Eastern Europe. So, you won’t need an ETIAS to visit destinations like Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Georgia, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Türkiye, and Ukraine
Tips for applying for ETIAS
Apply for ETIAS well in advance of your trip - if possible, before purchasing your flights or booking accommodations.
Make sure your passport details match the information in your ETIAS authorization.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your intended departure from Europe. This is super important. You will not be able to board your departure flight if your passport expires sooner than six months before your return flight.
