Europe’s travel rules are changing, and British holidaymakers need to know about it.
From mid-2025, a new system called ETIAS will affect how UK citizens and many others visit popular European destinations like Spain, France, and Italy.
Understanding ETIAS
ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System. It is not a visa but a quick check that travelers need to pass before entering 30 European countries.
The system aims to make border crossings smoother while keeping everyone safe.
The ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization system for visa-exempt visitors to the Schengen Area. Its main goals are:
- Enhancing security within the Schengen Area
- Preventing illegal immigration
- Protecting public health
- Reducing delays at borders
ETIAS will be required for entry into 30 European countries, including:
- 24 EU countries in the Schengen Area
- 4 non-EU Schengen countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland)
- 2 EU countries that are in the process of joining Schengen (Cyprus and Croatia)
The ETIAS is similar to existing systems in other countries, such as the United States ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), the Canadian eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), and the Australian ETA (Electronic Travel Authority).
Like these systems, the ETIAS aims to streamline the entry process for visa-exempt travelers while maintaining border security.
The Road to ETIAS Implementation
The ETIAS has been in development for several years as part of the European Union’s (EU) efforts to modernize its border management systems.
Currently, citizens from 60 countries, including the UK, can enter the Schengen Area for short stays without a visa. The ETIAS will add an extra layer of security to this visa waiver program.
Reasons for introducing ETIAS
The main reasons for introducing ETIAS are:
- To address security gaps in visa-free travel
- To gather information on travelers before they arrive at the border
- To reduce illegal overstays in the Schengen Area
Several EU agencies are involved in the development and implementation of ETIAS:
- European Commission: The executive branch of the EU, overseeing the project
- Frontex (European Border and Coast Guard Agency): Responsible for managing the ETIAS Central Unit
- eu-LISA (EU Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems): Developing and maintaining the ETIAS information system
ETIAS Timeline Key Dates and Milestones
Understanding the ETIAS timeline is crucial for travelers planning future trips to Europe.
The ETIAS is set to become operational in mid-2025. This is when the system will go live, and travelers should start applying for an ETIAS authorization before their trips.
Transitional period (at least 6 months)
After the ETIAS becomes operational, there will be a transitional period of at least six months. During this time:
- Travelers should apply for ETIAS authorization.
- Those without ETIAS won’t be refused entry if they meet all other entry conditions.
Grace period (at least 6 months)
Following the transitional period, there will be a grace period of at least another six months. During this time:
- ETIAS becomes mandatory for entry.
- First-time travelers since the end of the transitional period may be allowed entry without ETIAS, provided they meet all other conditions.
- All other travelers must have a valid ETIAS authorization.
The ETIAS Application Process
Applying for an ETIAS will be a straightforward online process for most travelers.
Applications will be submitted through the official ETIAS website or an official mobile app.
Required information for ETIAS application
Applicants will need to provide:
- Personal details (name, date of birth, etc.)
- Passport information
- Travel plans
- Background and eligibility questions
The ETIAS fee is expected to be €7 for adults between 18 and 70 years old. The fee will be waived for travelers under 18 and over 70 years old.
ETIAS approval time
Most applications are expected to be processed within minutes. In some cases, additional checks may be required, which could take up to 30 days.
ETIAS validity period
Once approved, an ETIAS authorization will be valid for multiple entries over a three-year period or until the associated passport expires, whichever comes first.
Who Needs ETIAS?
ETIAS will be required for visa-exempt travelers from approximately 60 countries.
This includes countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and many South American countries.
ETIAS eligibility criteria
To be eligible for ETIAS, travelers must:
- Be citizens of one of the visa-exempt countries
- Have a valid passport
- Be traveling for short-term stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period)
Some exceptions to ETIAS requirements include:
- EU citizens and their family members
- Long-term residents of EU countries
- Holders of specific types of visas or residence permits
The ETIAS Transitional Period Explained
The transitional period is designed to give travelers and border authorities time to adjust to the new system.
This period will last at least six months from the ETIAS start date. Its purpose is to allow travelers to become familiar with the new requirements and to give border authorities time to adapt their procedures.
During this period, travelers should:
- Apply for ETIAS if possible.
- Be prepared for potential questions about ETIAS at border checkpoints.
While not strictly enforced during this period, applying for ETIAS is encouraged to avoid potential issues in future travel and help test and improve the system.
Travelers without ETIAS during this period won’t be refused solely for lacking ETIAS but must still meet all other entry conditions.
Grace Period Detailed
The grace period follows the transitional period and marks the full implementation of ETIAS.
This period will last at least six months after the transitional period. Its purpose is to fully implement all ETIAS requirements and to provide a final adjustment period for travelers.
During the grace period, the ETIAS becomes mandatory for most travelers. Expect that border authorities will enforce ETIAS requirements at all ports of entry and exit within the EU.
Exception for first-time travelers since the end of the transitional period
A one-time exception may be granted to travelers who:
- Are entering the Schengen Area for the first time since the end of the transitional period
- Meet all other entry conditions
Consequences of not having an ETIAS travel authorization
After the grace period, travelers without a valid ETIAS authorization:
- May be refused entry to the Schengen Area
- Could face additional scrutiny at border checkpoints
Impact on Different Types of Travelers
ETIAS will affect various types of travelers differently.
Tourists
For most tourists, ETIAS will be a simple additional step in trip planning. However, once they have an ETIAS authorization, it will be valid for multiple short-term visits for over three years, unless their passport expires first.
Business travelers
Business travelers will find that ETIAS covers multiple short business trips. However, it does not replace work visas for longer stays or employment.
Students
Students should be aware that ETIAS covers short-term study programs (up to 90 days). However, longer study periods require appropriate student visas.
ETIAS and Data Protection
The ETIAS will collect and process personal data, raising important privacy considerations.
Types of data collected
ETIAS will collect:
- Basic personal information
- Passport details
- Travel plans
- Background check information
Traveler data will be used for security and eligibility checks. All information will be stored securely in the ETIAS Central System and accessed only by authorized personnel.
Data protection measures and traveler rights
The EU has committed to:
- Implementing strict data protection measures
- Allowing travelers to access and correct their ETIAS information
- Deleting data after the authorized retention period
Preparing for ETIAS
Travelers can take several steps to prepare for the introduction of ETIAS.
Staying informed about ETIAS updates
To stay up-to-date:
- Check the official ETIAS website regularly.
- Follow trusted travel news sources.
- Keep an eye on UK government travel advice.
Planning ahead for application processing times
Travelers should:
- Apply for ETIAS well in advance of planned trips.
- Allow extra time for possible additional checks.
Ensuring passport validity
Remember to check your passport expiry dates and to renew passports well before they expire, as ETIAS is linked to the passport.
Understanding the difference between ETIAS and visas
It’s important to know that ETIAS is not a visa, and it doesn’t guarantee entry to the Schengen Area. Border guards make the final decision on entry.
It is advised to know the difference between an ETIAS and a Schengen visa to determine the right travel document.
Preparing for Your Future European Travel
ETIAS represents a significant change in how British and other visa-exempt travelers will visit Europe from mid-2025.
While it adds an extra step to travel planning, it aims to enhance security and streamline the entry process for millions of visitors.
As we approach the ETIAS launch date, stay informed about any updates or changes to the system.
By understanding and preparing for ETIAS, British travelers can ensure their European adventures continue smoothly in this new era of travel.