Entry regulations in Europe are about to change.  Travelers that are visa free for Europe need to apply now for an ETIAS. This is all you need to know about it.

Starting in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt (visa free) countries will need a new document before they travel called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System). This document will be obligatory to enter the European Union countries in the Schengen Area.

I read the guidelines and regulations into detail. With this guide, I want to tell you everything you need to know about ETIAS, from who needs an ETIAS to visit Europe, how to apply, costs, and more.

Read more: How many blank passport pages do you need to travel to each country

What is ETIAS?

First of all. This is not a new visa process! ETIAS, short for the European Travel Information and Authorization System, is a travel authorization for travelers from visa-free non-EU countries visiting the Schengen Area. It allows European Union authorities to pre-screen travelers and make the immigration process in Europe way faster and easier for the authorities.

This means, in a short term future, we won’t have these incredibly long lines at the border but a more automatic process.

NOTE: This new system starts in 2025 and for now you don’t need any additional documentation if you have visa-free entry in the Schengen zone.

For which countries do I need to apply for an ETIAS?

Covers the Schengen Area (including 27 European countries)

Be connected at all times in Europe at all times.
I used e-SIM with Airalo. With them, I bought a plan of 10 GB for my whole stay in Egypt.
This was the most convenient choice. Find out here which are my favorite e-SIMs and why.

• Duration: Grants permission for short stays up to 90 days within 180 days
• Purpose: This document will be used for travelers coming for tourism, business, transit, and medical purposes. Travelers planning to move, study or learn a language will still need to apply for a visa at the respective embassies.

Read more: Everything you need to know about the UK ETA

How ETIAS Works

1. Electronic Application: ETIAS applications are submitted online, requiring personal information, travel details, and security questions.
2. Automated Pre-Screening: Your information is checked against EU databases.
3. Approval or Denial: Most applications are approved quickly, though some may require manual review. Some applications can take minutes to get approved, others up to a week.

Do I need an ETIAS Authorization?

Travelers from non-EU visa-exempt countries will require ETIAS authorization to enter the Schengen Area. This means, travelers coming from the USA, Canada, Australia and Japan they would need to apply for ETIAS beforehand.

Keep in Mind: For countries that generally require a Schengen Visa, ETIAS is not applicable. These travelers must continue using the standard visa process and apply for a  visa beforehand. ETIAS is only for travelers who usually do not need a visa to Europe.

Read more: Which are the weirdest passports in the world

How to Apply for ETIAS: Step-by-Step

Applying for ETIAS is designed to be quick and straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of the application process:

1. Prepare Your Documents:
   • Valid Passport (must be valid for at least six months from entry).
   • Contact Information: Email and phone number.
   • Payment Method: Credit or debit card.
2. Complete the Online Form:
   • Visit the official ETIAS application website.
   • Provide your personal information, passport details, and travel purpose.
   • Answer basic questions related to your health, travel history, and any criminal records.
3. Pay the Application Fee:
   • The ETIAS fee is €7 EUR for adults.
   • Payment is waived for travelers under 18 and over 70.
4. Receive Confirmation:
   • Most applications are approved in minutes.
   • You’ll receive an email with confirmation of your approved ETIAS, linked to your passport.
5. Travel with ETIAS:
   • ETIAS authorization is electronically linked to your passport.
   • Present your passport at European border control, where it will automatically verify your ETIAS. You don’t need to print any document, but carrying an online confirmation of the ETIAS is not a bad decision.

Costs and Validity of ETIAS

Cost: The ETIAS application fee is €7 EUR (around $8 USD) for adults between 18 and 70.

Validity of the ETIAS

Once you apply for a ETIAS, you will have three years of validity before you need to get a new one, or it will expire when your passport expires (whichever comes first).

The document will be also valid for multiple entries (of course with the standard limit of 90 days every 180 days), allowing for flexibility during the authorized period.

INSIDE INFO: With the ETIAS, the European Union wants to avoid travelers overstaying in the continent. Europe is currently having a big issue tracking which travelers overstay their stay

Best Time to Apply for ETIAS

Apply at least 72 hours before your departure to ensure approval, although many applications are processed instantly. For busy travel periods, consider applying a few weeks in advance. In my opinion, I would apply for ETIAS a week or two before my trips to Europe – just to make sure everything goes smoothly.

Travel Tips: Using ETIAS Efficiently

• Double-Check Your Details: Errors in your application may delay approval.
• Carry a Printout: While ETIAS is digital, a printed copy can help.
• Keep Passport Valid: ETIAS is tied to your passport—expired passports require a new application. A full passport or an emergency passport would also require a new ETIAS.

What to Do If You’re Denied ETIAS

If your application is denied, you’ll receive information on why. You can:

• File an appeal: Each EU country has its appeal process.
• Apply for a Schengen Visa: Depending on your situation, a traditional visa may be an option.

What about Countries Requiring a Visa Instead of ETIAS

Travelers from countries that are not visa-exempt need to apply for a traditional Schengen Visa. Requirements differ by nationality, and travelers can expect longer processing times and more paperwork than ETIAS applications.