ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is an upcoming digital visa-waiver program for travellers from visa-exempt countries visiting 30 European nations, including the Schengen Area. It costs €20, lasts for up to 3 years, and does not require you to visit an embassy.
Will this affect you?
If you are located in the UK, yes, ETIAS will affect you once it launches. It applies to British citizens and other non-EU/EEA nationals who currently do not need a visa to travel to Europe for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period).
Here is what you need to know about the system:
1. When does it start?
ETIAS is scheduled to launch in the last quarter of 2026. It is not yet operational, and you cannot apply or pay for it right now. The EU will confirm the exact start date several months in advance.
2. Costs and Validity
Cost: The fee is set at €20 (roughly £17). It will be free for travelers under 18 and over 71.
Validity: Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.
3. How to Apply
When the system goes live, you will apply online via the Official ETIAS Website or a dedicated mobile app. Most approvals are expected to be processed within minutes, though it can take up to 30 days in rare cases, so you should apply before booking travel.