The launch of the new visa-like travel system for Europe is expected to start in the first half of 2025.
If you’re planning a European trip in the next few years, renewing your passport and applying for PreCheck are no longer the only items on your to-do list before you head off to Sea-Tac to catch your flight. Now you’ll want to add “apply for ETIAS” to your list. The new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is scheduled to take effect in the first half of 2025 as a new requirement for American passport holders traveling to 30 European countries.
Read on for all you need to know about ETIAS!
What is ETIAS?
The European Travel Information and Authorization System is a new travel authorization that will be required in addition to a passport to visit participating European countries. You will need it for short-term trips of up to 90 days. The new system is meant to strengthen security for international travel.
Who needs to apply for ETIAS?
Anyone in the U.S. with a passport who can currently travel to Europe without a visa will need ETIAS for the same trip starting in 2025. This applies to not just the U.S. but to 60 countries in all. These are the 30 countries in Europe that will be requiring ETIAS.
When does it take effect?
The new travel authorization was supposed to take effect sometime in 2024, but in December 2023 a later launch date of mid-2025 was announced. This is because the entry/exit database won’t be ready until then. For now no exact date has been announced by the European Union. ETIAS was originally supposed to start in 2021 so there’s always a chance that the rollout will be delayed again. That said, it’s best to be prepared for it in 2025 if you have European travel plans.
How do you apply for it?
Travelers can apply directly online at the official ETIAS site. There will be an online form that can be filled out on your computer or phone. It should only take about 10 minutes. You’ll need a passport that isn’t due to expire in the next three months.
You’ll want to apply at least a month before your next upcoming trip to Europe. Typically decisions should be delivered within a few days or even minutes but delays can happen. If you are denied then you’ll have the option of a lengthier appeal process.
How much does it cost?
There is a fee of about 7 euros, or $8. It will be good for three years or until your passport expires—whichever occurs first.
You can read more on the official ETIAS website.