Authorization guide · European Union

ETIAS: the EU travel authorisation explained for 2026

Last reviewed 12 July 2026 · Source: European Union (official ETIAS)

ETIAS — the European Travel Information and Authorisation System — is a new, online travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers visiting most European countries. It is not a visa. Think of it as Europe’s equivalent of the US ESTA or UK ETA: a quick, low-cost pre-screening linked to your passport. This guide explains who will need it, what it costs, and how it differs from a Schengen visa.

Timing: ETIAS is being introduced in stages and is expected to become mandatory during 2026, following the roll-out of the EU Entry/Exit System (EES). Until the official start date, no one can be required to hold one. Always confirm the current status and never pay a site claiming to “pre-register” you for a fee.

At a glance

Document
ETIAS (travel authorisation)
Official fee
€7 (ages 18–70)
Exempt from fee
Under 18 & over 70
Maximum stay
90 days in any 180
Validity
3 years (or passport expiry)
Covers
~30 European countries
Processing
Usually minutes; can take longer
Apply at
Official EU ETIAS website

Who will need ETIAS

ETIAS will apply to nationals of countries whose citizens can already enter the Schengen area visa-free for short stays — for example US, UK, Canadian, Australian, Japanese, Brazilian and many other passport holders. If you currently show up in Europe with just your passport and no visa, you are the target of ETIAS.

You will not need ETIAS if you hold a Schengen visa or an EU residence permit, or if you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen. Nationalities that require a Schengen visa continue to use that route instead — ETIAS does not replace it.

ETIAS vs. Schengen visa

ETIAS compared with a Schengen visa
ETIASSchengen visa
Who it’s forVisa-exempt nationalsNationals who need a visa
TypeTravel authorisationFull visa
Cost€7€90
Where you applyOnlineConsulate / visa centre
Validity3 yearsPer issue
BiometricsNo appointmentFingerprints at appointment

How it will work

  1. Apply online on the official EU ETIAS website or app before travelling.
  2. Enter your passport and travel details and pay the €7 fee (if aged 18–70).
  3. Most approvals are near-instant; some cases are referred for review and take longer — the EU advises applying well ahead.
  4. Once approved, ETIAS is linked electronically to your passport and valid for up to three years.
  5. It permits stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period, subject to the same 90/180 rule as visa-free travel.

Frequently asked questions

Is ETIAS a visa?

No. It is a travel authorisation for people who are already visa-exempt, similar to the US ESTA.

How much does it cost?

€7 for applicants aged 18 to 70. Under-18s and over-70s pay nothing.

When does it start?

It is being phased in and expected to become mandatory during 2026, after the EES launch. Confirm the official date before you rely on it.

Does approval guarantee entry?

No. Border officers make the final decision, as with any authorisation.

Should I pre-register now on a paid site?

No. Only the official EU system is valid, and it charges €7 when live. Ignore sites demanding payment to “reserve” an ETIAS.

ETIAS rules and start dates are set by the EU and can change. Always confirm the current details on the official EU ETIAS website before you travel.

← Back to all destinations · Related: Schengen visa, USA ESTA, UK ETA, visa-free travel.