VizaAfter years of delays, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System officially launches. Here is what travelers from 60+ countries need to do before visiting the Schengen Area.
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) has officially launched, ending years of delays. Starting in 2026, nationals from more than 60 visa-exempt countries must obtain ETIAS authorisation before visiting any of the 30 Schengen Area member states.
What Is ETIAS?
ETIAS is a pre-travel electronic authorisation system similar to the US ESTA or Canada's eTA. It is not a visa — nationals who already require a Schengen visa still need one. ETIAS applies specifically to those who were previously able to enter the Schengen Zone without any advance paperwork.
Countries whose nationals need ETIAS include the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many others. A full list is available on the official EU travel portal.
How to Apply
- Visit the official ETIAS website (travel.ec.europa.eu) — third-party sites claiming to process ETIAS are scams
- Complete the online form (approximately 10 minutes)
- Pay the €7 fee (adults aged 18–70) — free for minors and seniors
- Receive your decision — most are approved within minutes
Key Facts
- Validity: 3 years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first
- Multiple trips: Covers unlimited trips to the Schengen Area during validity
- Max stay: Up to 90 days in any 180-day period (same as before)
- Linked to passport: One ETIAS per passport — if you get a new passport, apply again
Who Is Exempt?
EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals are exempt. Also exempt are nationals of countries that have a bilateral visa waiver agreement with all EU member states that predates the ETIAS regulation.
Transitional Period
The EU has implemented a 6-month grace period, running until mid-2026, during which travelers without ETIAS may still be permitted entry at border officers' discretion. From July 2026 onwards, ETIAS will be strictly enforced — airlines will not be permitted to board passengers without valid authorisation.
Practical Advice
Apply well before your trip. Although most applications are approved almost instantly, a small percentage are referred for manual review, which can take up to 30 days. Do not book non-refundable travel without ETIAS in hand.
Source: European Commission — ETIAS official website. Always verify requirements before travel.