Rules are changing around what you need to travel to Europe, including the cheapest countries to visit, with planned updates retargeting.
Starting in “the first half of 2025,” Americans will need one more document to enter European Union countries. To visit, you must apply for authorization under the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). Apply online and with the authorization linked to your passport, you will be considered for short-term stays of up to 90 days out of 180 days.
This was due to come into force until 2024, but in the fall of 2023 the European Union updated the ETIAS page to show that it would not come into force until mid-2025, confirming rumors of a delay. “The Commission remains committed to making ETIAS operational as soon as possible,” Anitta Hipper, the European Commission’s interior affairs spokeswoman, told Kiplinger in late September.
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How the European ETIAS system works
Some basic information is required to fill out the application. This includes your name, address, passport information, current occupation, as well as information about past travel to conflict areas and convictions. You will also need to share information about your travel plans and answer questions about whether you have relatives who are European citizens. This application does not require biometric data such as health information or fingerprints.
According to the ETIAS website, “most” applications are processed within minutes, but may be processed within four days of application. In addition, some requesters may be required to provide further information or conduct an interview, extending the process by up to 14 days for additional documentation and up to 30 days for an interview. So if you’re planning on traveling, don’t forget to apply before you leave.
The good news is that once approved, the approval is valid for three years. However, if your passport expires within his three years, you will need to apply again.
Email is important in this process. After you apply online, you will receive an email confirming your application. The ETIAS website states that the email “contains your unique ETIAS application number. Be sure to save this number for future reference.” You will receive another email once your application has been processed.
If your application is rejected, the reason will be stated in the email. You have the option to appeal the denial.
What Americans should be aware of with ETIAS
(Image source: Getty Images)
In addition to being a bit of a hassle, this requirement makes family vacations a little more expensive. The application fee is 7 euros, but is currently closer to $8. However, applications are free for those under 18 years of age and those over 70 years of age. There are also some exemptions for people with family members who are EU citizens and for “non-EU nationals with the right to free movement within the EU”.
There is one more thing to note. ETIAS warned last spring that a number of unofficial ETIAS websites were popping up. ETIAS says these sites contain inaccurate information and that some are “already collecting travellers’ personal information, which is alarming.” Protect your personal information by only using the official ETIAS website.
Highlights of what you need for a trip to Europe
This is a big change for Americans, as until now they didn’t need a visa to visit EU countries. Keep this in mind before you take a big trip to Greece, Italy, France, or any of the other 30 euro countries in 2025.
But Cameron Hewitt, content and editorial director at Rick Steves Europe, told the Washington Post: It’s a bit of red tape. ” Then your biggest concern will be avoiding the crowds in Santorini.
However, the old rules currently apply and in 2024, as an American, you will not need a visa to travel to Europe for up to 90 days. However, you should check the expiry date of your passport. You will need at least 6 months from your arrival in Europe’s Schengen area. Also, be aware of the time it takes to renew your passport.
