ETIAS: What UK travellers need to know
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is an upcoming electronic travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers visiting the Schengen Area for short stays.
Timeline and key points (summary)
- Entry/Exit System (EES): planned phased rollout from 12 October 2025, building towards full operation by 10 April 2026.
- ETIAS: expected to follow after EES is in place (commonly discussed as late 2026, but this can change).
- Fee: expected to be €20 for travellers aged 18–70 (fee exemptions typically apply outside that range, but authorisation may still be required).
- Validity: expected 3 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first).
Always check the latest official updates before you travel.
Who needs ETIAS?
Once operational, UK passport holders travelling to the Schengen Area for tourism/business short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) will need ETIAS. It does not replace a visa for longer stays, study, work, or residency routes.
How to apply (once available)
- Apply online via the official ETIAS website/app once it launches.
- Provide passport and personal details, and answer security/eligibility questions.
- Pay the fee (if applicable).
- Many applications may be approved quickly, but some can take longer if extra checks are needed.
Important travel tips
- Use the same passport for ETIAS as you will for travel (new passport usually means a new ETIAS).
- Apply in good time once the system goes live.
- ETIAS does not replace passport validity rules (EU 10-year issue limit + 3-month rule still apply).
Official information: travel-europe.europa.eu (ETIAS)