Check out our FAQs to learn all about ETIAS, how to apply, and what you need for your trip.
ETIAS in General
When will ETIAS launch?
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is expected to launch six months after the Entry-Exit System (EES) becomes operational. The EES will launch sometime in 2025.
Do I need to apply for an ETIAS?
You’ll need an ETIAS travel authorization if:
- You’re not from a European Union (EU) country.
- You’re from a country whose citizens don’t need a visa for short trips to Europe.
- You don’t have a residency permit in any country.
Is the ETIAS like a visa or a residency permit?
The ETIAS is not the same as a Schengen visa or residency permit. It is essentially a visa waiver system designed to strengthen security and streamline travel within the Schengen Area. Unlike a Schengen visa, the ETIAS process is faster, simpler, and fully online.
Having an ETIAS only allows you to enter and stay in Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It doesn’t allow you to stay beyond that period. If you want to stay longer, you’ll need a long-term visa.
Can I be denied entry even if I have an ETIAS?
Border guards conduct checks, and they can deny entry to those who don’t meet the entry conditions, even with a valid ETIAS travel authorization.
Do I have to apply for an ETIAS every time I go to Europe?
There is no need to apply for an ETIAS every time you visit Europe. Your ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner. You can use it for multiple entries into Schengen countries.
Can I enter all European countries with an ETIAS?
The ETIAS only covers countries within the Schengen Area. Non-Schengen EU countries, such as Ireland, are not included in this system.
What role does the European Commission play in ETIAS?
The European Commission oversees the implementation and operation of the ETIAS system, ensuring it meets the objectives of enhancing security and facilitating travel within the Schengen Area.
How is data protection ensured in ETIAS?
The ETIAS system follows strict EU regulations to protect personal data. The information provided during the application process is securely stored and only accessed by authorized authorities for specific purposes.
Applying for an ETIAS
How do I apply?
You can apply for an ETIAS by filling out an application form on the official ETIAS website. You can also have someone else, like a friend, family member, or a travel agency, do it for you.
You’ll need a valid travel document, usually a passport, and a fee of €7.
When should I apply?
It’s best to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation before booking your trip.
Most applications are processed within minutes, but some may take up to 30 days if additional checks are required.
What travel documents do I need to apply for an ETIAS?
You’ll need a valid travel document, such as a biometric passport, that is not more than 10 years old and valid for at least three months after your planned departure from Europe.
This rule doesn’t apply to family members of EU citizens or non-EU nationals who have the right to move freely within the EU.
Can I still apply even if my travel document expires in less than three months?
You can try to apply for an ETIAS with a travel document that expires in less than three months from when you apply. However, know that you’ll likely not be allowed in unless you have a really important reason, like humanitarian grounds.
Can I apply even if I don’t have confirmed travel plans?
When you apply for an ETIAS, you have to indicate your first destination in the Schengen Area. This helps them process your application. Once approved, you can visit any of the Schengen countries.
How long does the ETIAS application process take?
Completing the application is fast and simple. You’ll usually receive your ETIAS travel authorization in minutes, but sometimes it can take up to 30 days. It’s best to apply well before your trip to avoid any issues.
How will I know the status of my ETIAS application?
You’ll receive an email after your ETIAS application has been reviewed. If you don’t see it, check your email’s junk folder.
Why haven’t I received my ETIAS authorization right away?
Sometimes, it can take longer to process ETIAS applications. You’ll receive a response within 96 hours letting you know if your travel authorization has been approved, denied, or if you need to give more information or documents.
If you need to provide more details, you have 10 extra days to do so.
After you give the extra documents, you’ll hear back within 96 hours if your travel authorization is approved or not.
If your extra information isn’t enough, you’ll be asked for an interview. This can happen at the nearest Consulate or online.
You’ll sort out the details with the Consulate. The decision on your application will come within 48 hours after the interview.
Can someone else apply for ETIAS for me?
It’s possible for someone else like a friend or family member, or even a travel agency, to apply for ETIAS for you if you permit them. You both have to sign a declaration of representation stating that you’ve authorized them to do so.
I made a mistake on my ETIAS application. What should I do?
If you made a mistake on your ETIAS application, the quickest and easiest solution is to apply for a new ETIAS travel authorization. You can use the information from your original application and correct any errors.
This method is especially useful if you need to make significant changes, like updating your email address, correcting your nationality, or updating your passport details or your name.
If the mistake is minor, you can request a correction. Keep in mind that it may take up to 30 days for your request to be processed.
Do I need to print out my ETIAS authorization?
You don’t have to print your authorization because the check-in staff or border guards can see it in their system. However, you can still bring a printed copy just for your own convenience.
Updating Your ETIAS Application
Can I use my ETIAS even after I’ve changed my passport?
If you’ve changed your passport for any reason, you’ll need to apply for a new ETIAS travel authorization. This authorization is linked to your travel document, so whenever you get a new one, you’ll need to update your ETIAS.
What happens if I lose my passport?
If you lose your passport or it gets stolen, tell the local police. When this happens, your ETIAS travel authorization will be canceled.
You should also get in touch with your country’s Consulate and ask them to give you a new travel document, like a passport, an emergency travel document, or a laissez-passer.
Once you have your new travel document, you’ll need to apply for a new ETIAS travel authorization, and make sure to provide the details of your new travel document.
Paying for Your ETIAS
How much do I pay for an ETIAS?
When applying for an ETIAS, you will be charged a fee of € 7.
Applicants under 18 and over 70 years old are exempt from this payment. Also exempt are family members of EU citizens and family members of non-EU nationals who have the right to move freely throughout the EU.
Can I get my application fee back if my application was denied?
The ETIAS fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
Denial and Cancellation of ETIAS Application
Is a criminal record a factor in ETIAS approval?
Yes, your application may be denied if you have a serious criminal record or criminal convictions that raise security concerns. Each case is reviewed individually, and decisions are based on the information provided.
Why was my ETIAS application denied?
An ETIAS application can be denied for several reasons:
- If the applicant used a travel document that was reported lost, stolen, or invalidated.
- If the applicant is considered a security risk, poses a threat to illegal immigration, or comes from an area with a high risk of spreading diseases.
- If the applicant doesn’t respond to requests for more information or documents by the deadline or doesn’t show up for an interview.
- If the applicant has been denied entry before and there’s a record of it in the system.
- If there are doubts about the truthfulness of the information provided by the applicant.
If your application is denied, you’ll receive an email explaining why. It will also tell you what to do if you want to challenge the decision.
Can I apply again even if my ETIAS application is refused?
You can apply again if your ETIAS application is refused. A previous rejection does not mean that a new application will automatically be denied.
I was granted an ETIAS travel authorization. Can it be canceled?
An ETIAS travel authorization can be canceled if authorities find out you no longer meet the requirements. This could happen if you provided false information or if your circumstances changed.
If it’s discovered that you didn’t meet the conditions when you applied for your ETIAS, they can also cancel it.
If this happens, you’ll receive an email explaining why your permission was revoked and what you can do if you want to challenge it.
Make sure to always check the status of your ETIAS before you travel.
What can I do if my ETIAS was revoked while I was traveling in the EU?
If your ETIAS was revoked, it means you no longer have the right to stay legally in certain European countries that require an ETIAS. You’ll receive an email explaining what to do if you want to challenge this decision.
If your travel permission was revoked because, for example, you lost your travel documents and got new ones, you can apply for a new ETIAS authorization.
Can I cancel my ETIAS travel authorization?
You can cancel your ETIAS travel authorization at any time. However, if you’re in a European country that requires ETIAS when you make the request, it will only take effect after you leave.
ETIAS Validity and Renewal
How long is the validity of an ETIAS authorization?
An ETIAS authorization is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever happens sooner. For example, if your passport expires in two years, then your ETIAS will also expire in two years.
How do I renew my ETIAS travel authorization?
You can apply for a new ETIAS travel authorization up to 120 days before your current one expires. The process is the same as the initial application.
Additional FAQs About Travel to Europe
What is the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area is a group of 27 European countries that have abolished border controls between them, allowing for free and unrestricted movement of people. Countries like Spain, France, Switzerland, and Italy are part of this zone.
What is a Schengen Visa?
A Schengen visa allows travelers to visit any of the countries in the Schengen Area for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. An ETIAS, however, is a visa waiver for travelers who do not need a visa.
What are visa-exempt countries?
Visa-exempt countries, like the United Kingdom, are nations whose citizens can travel to the Schengen Area without needing a visa for short stays. These travelers can use the ETIAS system to gain entry instead of applying for a Schengen visa.
Ready for Your Trip?
The ETIAS simplifies travel to the Schengen Area for eligible citizens, but it’s essential to understand the requirements, application process, and validity conditions.Ensure your travel documents are valid and apply early to avoid any issues. For more information, visit our page for updates.