European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is the visa waiver for Non EU nationals (who are visa exempt) to travel to the Schengen zone.
The entry-exit scheme (EES) was due to become operational in late 2024, however a delay was announced as some countries still weren’t prepared for the implementation. A phased introduction during 2025 is currently expected.
This will replace the need for passport stamping at EU borders, passengers will provide a fingerprint and have their photo taken. The automated system will use biometric checks when a passenger from the UK and other non-EU countries enters or leaves the EU. This border process will pick up if a traveller has been refused entry previously, or overstayed their welcome. Biometric details will be held on file for 3 years so repeat visits to the EU within that duration shouldn’t require the same registration process each time.
Once the EES scheme is operational, the ETIAS scheme will be launched, which is estimated to be during the last quarter of 2026.
The ETIAS application will cost €7 per person (under 18 years and over 70 years are exempt from payment). The ETIAS is valid for three years or until the corresponding passport expires, if less than three years remains on the expiry date.
Border officials will ask visitors for the ETIAS and passport when crossing the EU border.
The ETIAS application will request the following information:
- Personal information including your name(s), surname, date and place of birth, nationality, home address, parents’ first names, email address and phone number
- Passport information
- Details about your education and occupation
- Details about your travel plans (indication of the first country you intend to stay in)
- Details about any criminal convictions and previous travel to war /conflicted zones and any deportation decisions
It will be recommended to apply for ETIAS travel authorisation before booking your travel arrangements. The majority of applications should be approved within 96 hours of submission. Some applicants may be requested to hold an interview with the authorities which could take up to 30 days.
Once the ETIAS has been issued holders can travel to any of the 30 European countries.
For anyone who has visited the USA, it’s a similar application to the ESTA system they have in place.
Official website (ETIAS applications are not available at the moment): https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
