ETIAS - New requirements to travel to Europe
ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026 in Germany.
No action is required from travelers at this point.
The European Union will inform about the specific date for the start of ETIAS several months prior to its launch.
The rules of travel to Europe have changed.
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will be required for short stays in 30 European countries. The new travel rules will apply to citizens of 59 visa-exempt countries and territories.
Essential Facts About ETIAS Travel Authorization
Short-term Stays:
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The ETIAS authorization is linked to your passport.
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With a valid ETIAS, travelers can enter participating countries multiple times for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
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ETIAS does not guarantee entry — border guards will verify documents and entry conditions upon arrival.
Application Process:
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Apply via the official ETIAS website or mobile app.
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Fee: €7.00 (some travelers may be exempt).
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Most applications are processed within minutes, but some may take longer — apply well in advance of travel.
Application Confirmation:
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You’ll receive an email confirmation with a unique ETIAS application number after submitting.
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Once approved, a second email will confirm the outcome.
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Important: Double-check your name, passport number, and all details. Errors may lead to denied entry.
Validity Period:
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ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires — whichever comes first.
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If you receive a new passport, you will need to apply for a new ETIAS.
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Make sure your ETIAS remains valid throughout your trip.
Border Crossing Requirements:
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Always travel with the same passport used in your ETIAS application.
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Without it, you may be denied boarding or entry.
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Border authorities will verify that you meet all entry conditions upon arrival.
Checklist for Travelers:
Apply in Advance: Complete your ETIAS application before purchasing travel tickets or making accommodation arrangements.
Verify Passport Details: Ensure that the details in your ETIAS authorization match your passport.
Check Validity: Confirm that your ETIAS authorization is still valid before your departure.
Know Stay Duration: Be aware of how long you can stay in Europe with your ETIAS authorization.
Check Passport Expiry: Your passport should be valid for at least three months after your planned departure from Europe.
European countries and UK requiring ETIAS
These 30 European countries require visa-exempt travellers to have an ETIAS travel authorisation:
Who needs an ETIAS travel authorisation:
Nationals of any of these visa-exempt countries/territories need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation:
Good to know:
To visit the UK for up to 6 months as a tourist, to do business, or as a short-term student, you will need to apply for an ETA (electronic travel authorisation). The ETA is valid for a maximum of 2 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). It can be used for more than one visit to the UK within that period.
You do not need to apply for an ETA if you are Irish, if you already have permission to live, work or study in the UK, if you already have a visa to stay in the UK, or if you are transiting through a UK airport (as long as you do not have to pass through border control - check with your airline to find out if this is the case).
More details and conditions can be found on the ETA section of the website of the UK immigration authorities.
Stay updated and prepare accordingly to ensure a smooth travel experience to Europe under the new ETIAS rules.
Source: ETIAS European Union
