UK Travellers to France: A Step-by-Step Guide to the New ETIAS Requirement
A new travel requirement awaits UK visitors to France post-Brexit. From late 2026, an online ETIAS authorisation will be mandatory for short stays in France and the Schengen Area.
This guide clearly explains the simple, non-visa process for British passport holders planning their next European trip.
What is ETIAS and Why Do UK Travellers to France Need it?
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a new pre-travel screening for visitors from visa-exempt countries like the UK. You will need this online authorisation for short stays in France and most other European Union nations starting in late 2026.
ETIAS Explained
ETIAS is not a visa but a digital travel permit linked directly to your passport. It allows multiple short trips over three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Think of it as a quick security check completed online before you travel.
The Brexit Context
After Brexit, UK citizens lost the automatic right of free movement within the EU. The ETIAS is part of the new border framework, alongside the Entry/Exit System (EES), which will digitally record your entries and exits.
This change standardises entry requirements for all non-EU visitors.
Who Needs ETIAS?
The rule is straightforward: if you’re a UK citizen with a standard passport, you need ETIAS for tourism, business, or family visits. This requirement applies even for travel to European nations like Cyprus, which has specific rules for calculating your 90-day stay.
You are exempt from ETIAS if you hold a residence permit from France or another EU country. Other exemptions include beneficiaries of the UK Withdrawal Agreement living in Europe and diplomats under specific agreements.
| Your Situation | Do You Need ETIAS for France? | Key Reason |
| UK citizen with a standard passport | Yes | Required for all visa-exempt visitors for short stays. |
| UK citizen with an EU residence permit | No | Your permit grants you right of residence. |
| Family member of an EU citizen (living in a different EU country) | Depends. | You are exempt from ETIAS if you are: * Spouse/Registered PartnerChildren (under 21) of the EU citizen or their spouse/partner. * Dependent Direct Relatives in Ascending/Descending Line (e.g., a parent or grandparent) of the EU citizen or their spouse/partner, who are supported by them. * Dependent Relatives (including those under 26 preparing for a profession, or due to illness/disability) of the EU citizen or their spouse/partner. |
The process involves filling out an online application form and paying a small application fee. It is similar to systems used by other countries, such as Canada’s eTA.
You must use a valid travel document, meaning your passport must be biometric and meet EU validity rules.
Before You Apply: Essential Checklist for UK Applicants
Getting your ETIAS application right starts with good preparation. Make sure you have these key items ready before you begin the online process.
Your UK Passport: The Non-Negotiable Requirement
You must use a valid, biometric UK passport. Check that it was issued within the last ten years and will be valid for at least three months after you plan to leave the Schengen area, which includes countries like France and Spain.
What You’ll Need to Complete the Application
You will need a debit or credit card to pay the fee and an email address you use regularly. The entire application process is completed on the official ETIAS website managed by the European Commission.
You should also know your travel plans, specifically the address of your first night’s stay. Be ready to answer questions about your education, current job, and limited personal history.
Essential items for your application:
- A biometric UK passport
- A valid payment card
- A personal email address
- Your first night’s address in Europe
Accuracy is critical, especially for details like your passport number. Border guards will scan this at your border crossing and check it against your ETIAS authorisation. Any mismatch can lead to delays or a denied entry, so double-check everything you type.
Remember, the ETIAS authorises short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The information you provide helps ensure a smooth border crossing when you arrive for your trip.
The Step-by-Step ETIAS Application Process for UK Travellers
Submitting your ETIAS application is a quick online procedure. Follow these clear steps to secure your travel authorisation without any hassle.
Step 1: Finding the Official Application Platform
Always apply through the official ETIAS website or its mobile app. You can find the correct link via the EU’s official portal, Europa.
Avoid third-party websites that charge extra fees for the same service. The official site is your only source for a legitimate application.
Step 2: Filling Out the Online Form
You will need to provide accurate personal, passport, and contact details. The form also asks about your background, education, and current occupation.
Take your time to ensure every answer is correct, especially your passport information. An error here could cause problems at the external borders of member states.
Key sections of the ETIAS form:
- Personal details (name, date of birth)
- Passport information
- Contact information
- Education and occupation
- Background and eligibility questions
Step 3: Payment and Submission
A fee of €20 is required for most adult applicants. You can pay securely online using a standard debit or credit card.
After payment, review your details one final time and submit. You will immediately get an email confirming your application has been received.
Step 4: What Happens After You Apply?
Most applicants receive their approved ETIAS travel authorisation by email within minutes. This digital permit is linked to your passport.
If your application is flagged for manual checks, a decision can take up to 30 days. You will be notified by email if you need to provide extra information.Your ETIAS is valid for travel to all participating countries, including France, Malta, and Liechtenstein. Remember, it is not valid for travel to Ireland, which is not part of this system.
Travelling to France with Your Approved ETIAS
Your approved ETIAS is your key for short-term stays in France and beyond. Here’s what to expect when you use it at check-in and the border.
At Check-in and the UK Departure Point
Airlines will verify your ETIAS status electronically before you board. They check it against the passport you used in your application.
This step ensures you meet the entry rules for your destination. You won’t need to show a paper copy, but having your passport ready speeds things up.
At French Border Control
Present the same passport that is linked to your valid ETIAS. Border guards will scan it to confirm your details and check your authorization.
Remember, ETIAS is not a Schengen visa or a guarantee of entry. The border officer has the final say and may ask for proof of funds or your return ticket.
Your ETIAS allows entry to all ETIAS member states, which are also Schengen countries. This includes nations like Norway and Switzerland.
The 90/180-Day Rule in Practice
This rule limits you to 90 days within any 180-day period across the Schengen area. Your time in France counts towards this total alongside stays in any other Schengen country.
For example, a two-week holiday in France uses 14 days of your allowance. You could then spend another 76 days in the zone within the same 180-day window.
If you need to stay longer than 90 days, you must apply for a national long-stay visa. An ETIAS only covers short visits and cannot be converted into a residence permit.
Ready to Explore France?
The ETIAS is a simple online step for your French holidays. Just remember to use the official website, check your passport is valid and biometric, and double-check every detail you enter.
Think of it as a quick digital formality that keeps your travel plans smooth. Bookmark the EU’s official ETIAS page for the latest news, and feel free to share this guide with friends planning their next trip.