What is ETIAS?
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The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will soon be an entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling to any of these 30 European countries:
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ETIAS
It will be linked to the traveler's passport. It will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you will need to obtain a new ETIAS travel authorization.
With a valid ETIAS travel authorization, you can enter the territory of these European countries as many times as you like for short-term stays, typically up to 90 days in a 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry.
Does ETIAS apply to you?
If you come from one of the following visa-exempt countries, you will need an ETIAS authorization to travel to Europe. However, there are some exceptions to this rule - be sure to check on the official ETIAS website to see if any of them apply to you.
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ETIAS
5 things you need to know about ETIAS
- ETIAS is a new travel requirement: if you come from one of the countries on the list above, from 2025 you will have to obtain an ETIAS travel authorisation to any of the 30 European countries.
- ETIAS is for short-term visits: with a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can stay in any of the 30 European countries for 90 days in a 180-day period. Your ETIAS travel authorisation will be valid for three years or until the passport you used in your application expires, whichever comes first. You must be in possession of a valid ETIAS travel authorisation for the entire duration of your stay. You can leave and return at any time, as long as you respect this time limit.
- The ETIAS is not a visa: you will apply for it online, you will not have to go to a Consulate and it will be much faster and cheaper than obtaining a visa.
- Europe is not the first to introduce travel authorisations for visa-exempt nationals: the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom all require similar travel authorisations.
- The system is not yet operational and no applications are being collected at the moment: The European Commission will announce the exact timetable for the launch of ETIAS.
Beware of scams
There is only one official ETIAS website. The application form will be available on this website once the system is up and running.
There are dozens of websites claiming to be 'official' ETIAS application sites, using the official EU logo. Some even collect personal data from travellers. Although it will be legal for commercial intermediaries to apply on your behalf once the system is in place, make sure you use one you trust: some may steal your personal details, passport number and credit card. They may also charge an additional fee for their services.
Remember: ETIAS will only cost you €7 if you use the official ETIAS website to apply.