After years of delays, Europe’s European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is approaching. Once it launches, citizens of around 60 visa-exempt countries — including the UK, the United States, Canada and Australia — will need an online authorisation before visiting most European countries for short stays. Here is what we know, and how to prepare.
ETIAS essentials
- Who: visa-exempt non-EU travellers visiting participating European countries
- Fee: €20 (EU reporting); exemptions expected for some age groups
- Timing: EU reporting has pointed to a launch in the final quarter of 2026, followed by transition and grace periods
How ETIAS will work
Travellers will complete an online application with passport details, contact information and answers to security and health questions. Most applications are expected to be approved within minutes, though some may take longer. An approved ETIAS will be linked electronically to your passport — there is nothing to print — and is expected to be valid for multiple trips over several years or until your passport expires.
Transition and grace periods
To avoid chaos at borders, the EU plans a phased introduction: a six-month transition period after launch, during which ETIAS is not strictly required for first entries, followed by a six-month grace period with stricter but non-punitive enforcement. After that, travellers without a valid authorisation could be refused boarding by airlines, ferry and coach operators.
How it fits with EES
ETIAS works alongside the biometric Entry/Exit System, operational since April 2026, which records your fingerprints and facial image at the border and tracks the 90-days-in-180 rule. ETIAS is checked before travel; EES records you when you arrive.
The biggest risk for travellers is not ETIAS itself — it is the look-alike websites charging many times the official fee.
Protect yourself from scams
- Apply only through the official EU website or app once ETIAS opens.
- Be wary of sites charging “processing fees” well above €20.
- Never share passport details via unsolicited emails or messages.
Check before you book
The ETIAS start date has changed several times, and official EU pages are the only reliable source for the final timetable. Ireland does not participate, and travellers to Cyprus should check specific rules. More guidance in our Travel section.