ETIAS European Travel Information and Authorisation System: Everything You Need to Know

The European Travel Authorisation and Information System (ETIAS) is coming into effect in late 2026, although an exact timeline has not been confirmed by the EU.

With the EES European Entry/Exit System already in place, many British travellers are facing confusion and uncertainty around what the new border controls entail.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most common questions around the ETIAS and explore the official guidance in simple terms.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is a new digital visa-waiver program. If you’re travelling from a visa-exempt country like the UK, US or Canada, you’ll need to apply for authorisation to visit 30 countries within the EU.

Once approved, ETIAS authorisation lasts for three years, and can cover multiple trips.

Why Do UK Citizens Need ETIAS?

UK citizens need to apply for ETIAS authorisation. Since the UK is no longer a member of the European Union, British passport holders are considered non-EU nationals. Although UK citizens can continue to visit most Schengen Area countries without a visa for short stays, ETIAS will become a mandatory travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers, including those from the UK.

Which Countries Need ETIAS Authorisation?

Below are the countries that will be participating in ETIAS:

If you’re a national of the following countries or territories, ETIAS authorisation is needed to visit those above.

What Does an ETIAS Application Require?

In the ETIAS application process, you’ll be asked to share:

• Your full name.
• Date and place of birth.
• Home address.
• Email address and phone number.
• Parent’s first names.
• Your level of education and current occupation.
• Details of your passport or chosen travel document.
• Details about your intended travel and stay period in the relevant country.
• Details of any criminal convictions, travel to past war zones, and expulsion from the territory of any country.
• Payment details for the application fee.

You should ensure all the information provided is correct to avoid issues or complications down the line. Applications for under-18s must be completed by a parent or legal guardian.

How Much Does ETIAS Cost?

ETIAS applications have a fee of €20. Travellers under 18 or over 70 are exempt from the fee but still have to apply. Family members of EU citizens are also exempt from payment under certain conditions. Most applications are expected to be approved, but if your application is unsuccessful, the fee is non-refundable.

When Might an ETIAS Application Be Refused?

The EU states that ETIAS applications will be refused if you:

• Are using a passport or travel document that has been reported lost, stolen, or otherwise invalid.
• Are expected to pose a security, illegal immigration, or high epidemic risk.
• Fail to provide additional information or attend an interview if requested.
• Have previously been refused entry to the EU/Schengen area, with an alert recorded in the relevant database.

These rules won’t affect the vast majority of UK citizens. However, until your application is accepted, it’s best to stay organised and keep checking your inbox, just in case any information requests come through.

Is ETIAS the Same as EES?

No, they’ll both be required to travel, but they’re two separate systems. EES happens at the border, where a facial photo and fingerprints will be taken at machines. ETIAS takes place before you travel, where you must fill in a form and pay a small fee of 20 euros before you travel.

What Do I Need to Bring with Me When I Travel?

Bring the same travel document that you used when applying for ETIAS. For most travellers, this will be a passport. If you’re travelling on a passport, it will generally need to be less than 10 years old and have at least 3–6 months’ validity remaining, depending on your destination. You should also check that your ETIAS authorisation hasn’t expired by the time you go.

Main image: Waldemar Brandt – Unsplash