ETIAS Application: What You Need to Know Before Traveling to Europe in 2027

What is ETIAS and why does it matter?

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a new electronic travel authorization that will be required for visa-exempt nationals visiting Europe. If you are a citizen of the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, or any of the nearly 60 visa-exempt countries and territories, you will need an approved ETIAS before boarding your flight to Europe.

Unlike a visa, ETIAS is a simple online process that takes about 10 minutes to complete. Most applications are approved within minutes, although some can take several days if additional checks are needed. Once granted, the authorization is valid for up to three years, or until your passport expires - whichever comes first.

When does ETIAS start?

ETIAS is expected to start operations in the last quarter of 2026, with a phased rollout. During an initial transitional period of at least six months, you will not be refused entry just for traveling without an ETIAS, as long as you meet all other entry conditions. This is followed by a grace period, after which ETIAS becomes fully required. From 2027 onward, every visa-exempt traveler will need an approved ETIAS, so if you are traveling to Europe in 2027, make sure you apply before your trip. The EU will announce the exact launch date on the official portal several months in advance.

Who needs ETIAS?

ETIAS is required for citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling to any of the 30 European countries where the system applies. This includes every member of the Schengen Area, plus Cyprus - the only one of these 30 countries that is not yet part of Schengen. (Bulgaria and Romania became full Schengen members on 1 January 2025, so they are now inside the Schengen Area.) EU citizens, holders of a valid Schengen visa, and certain residence permit holders are exempt.

How to apply

The application process is straightforward. You will need a valid passport, an email address, and a credit or debit card to pay the EUR 20 fee. Note that ETIAS itself does not collect biometric data - fingerprints and facial images are part of the separate Entry/Exit System (EES) checks at the border. The online form asks for your personal details, passport information, and travel plans, and includes a series of security-related questions. Travelers under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the fee.

Key things to remember

Apply at least 72 hours before your trip to allow for any unexpected processing delays. Your ETIAS is linked electronically to your passport, so no printed document is needed. And remember: an approved ETIAS does not guarantee entry. Border officers make the final decision based on whether you meet the entry conditions.

Frequently asked questions

How much does ETIAS cost?

The fee is EUR 20. Travelers under 18 or over 70 pay nothing.

How long is an ETIAS valid?

Up to three years, or until your passport expires - whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need a new ETIAS.

How long does ETIAS take to process?

Most applications are approved within minutes. If extra checks are needed, a decision can take several days, so apply well in advance.

Do children need an ETIAS?

Yes. Travelers of all ages need an ETIAS, but those under 18 are exempt from the fee.

Is ETIAS a visa?

No. ETIAS is a travel authorization, not a visa. It is a pre-travel security check, similar to the US ESTA or UK ETA. Visa-free countries keep their visa-free status.