Expect to have to go through a bit more paperwork and incur additional costs to visit EU countries in the near future.
Ofeli Garcia-Rorer and Selena Tara Updated July 25, 2024 at 4:43 pm
Porto, Portugal | bloodua/iStock/Getty Images
Soon, you will need to factor another expense into your budget for future European trips.
Initially, Europe announced that starting in May 2021 (now postponed to November 2023), Americans between the ages of 18 and 70 entering Europe will have to pay a fee of 7 euros, which equates to about $7.60 at the time of writing. The new fee is part of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which is used to increase security at borders.
When does the ETIAS and associated fees come into effect?
An update on the new visa requirements published in July 2023 claimed that visa applications would open in 2024. In September of the same year, the date was changed again.
According to the European Commission’s ETIAS website, “The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is scheduled to go live in the first half of 2025.” However, according to EU officials, the ETIAS launch date has been pushed back to 2025 and “may be further delayed,” SchengenVisaInfo.com previously reported. Officials attributed the delay to “unforeseen delays.”
According to the official ETIAS timeline, the ETIAS is scheduled to be introduced a few months after the Emerging Entry System (EES) is implemented. According to the official website, the system “will require identity documents, travel document data and biometric checks for non-EU travelers visiting these European countries for short periods.” However, the website states that ETIAS will not collect biometric data.
How do I apply for ETIAS?
Once the fee comes into force, applying will be easier as it will be similar to the ESTA process that non-US travellers undergo when visiting the US.
“Non-EU nationals who do not require a visa to travel to the Schengen Area will need to apply for travel authorization through the ETIAS system before traveling,” an update on the European Commission’s website said. “The information collected through ETIAS will enable the pre-screening of potential security and high-disease risks to irregular migrants, while fully respecting fundamental rights and data protection principles.”
Simply put, once ETIAS comes into effect, travelers who don’t need a visa to enter the EU will need to take additional steps: They will have to fill out a form via a mobile app or website. Some applications will require the payment of a fee of 7 euros. According to the ETIAS fact sheet, most applications will take around 10 minutes to be approved. Some applications may take up to 30 days to be approved, although it’s predicted that this timeline will apply to less than 5% of cases.
The application requires passport or equivalent document information, identity documents from the first EU member state you plan to visit, and background questions including information about past criminal records, stays in conflict zones, and removal orders from the territory. After applying, you will receive a confirmation email with a reference number. Once approved, your ETIAS will be valid for three years or for the validity period of your travel document.
When should I apply for ETIAS?
The new system won’t come into effect until 2025 at the earliest, but if you’ve already made plans for a trip to Europe that far into the future, be sure to add it to your pre-travel checklist (and, of course, make sure your passport is valid well before your holiday).
According to official guidelines, travelers should aim to obtain the ETIAS travel authorization before making any travel arrangements, such as booking a hotel or purchasing a flight.
“Most applications are processed within minutes, and no later than 96 hours,” the website states, “however, some applicants may be asked to submit additional information or documentation or attend an interview with state authorities, which may take up to an additional 30 days.”
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Ofeli Garcia-Rorer is a staff writer for Thrillist’s news team. Follow her on Twitter. Ofeli Garcia My Instagram is @opheligarcia.
Serena Tara is a staff writer on Thrillist’s news team. twitter And Instagram.
Editor’s note: This article has been updated by a writer other than the original author to make it more timely and comprehensive. To ensure the quality and relevance of our content, Thrillist editors regularly update this article and other articles to meet our editorial standards.
