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If you’re planning a short stay in Europe, you will soon be required to apply for a travel authorization to enter. 30 European countries will be requiring an ETIAS travel authorization from citizens of many visa-exempt countries in 2024.
I know this sounds overwhelming, but it’s a lot easier than you may think, and I’m breaking down all of the information available right now into easy-to-digest pieces so you can keep planning those trips!
ETIAS Travel Authorization
What is the ETIAS Travel Authorization?
ETIAS is an entry requirement for traveling to Europe. It pertains to visa-exempt nationals wishing to enter any of these 30 countries:
If you’re a national from any of these visa-exempt countries (also shown in the image below), you’ll need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization. (The United States is on this list)
Example: If you’re a US citizen and want to visit any of the countries in the first image above for a short stay, you’ll need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization.
What are the ETIAS Timelines?
When does the ETIAS travel authorization go into effect?
While there is not currently a specific date set, the official website for ETIAS says it will go into effect in 2024.
When do you need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization?
This information is not yet available, but will be updated as soon as it is released.
How long does the application process take?
According to the ETIAS site, most applications will be approved within minutes. However, some applications may require additional documentation and/or an interview which can take anywhere for a few days to 30 days.
Applying for an ETIAS Travel Authorization
Some of the information you’ll need to be able to provide:
- Travel document details
- Payment
- Personal information including your name(s), surname, date and place of birth, nationality, home address, parents’ first names, email address and phone number
- Details about your level of education and current occupation
- Details about your intended travel and stay in any of the countries requiring ETIAS
- Details about any criminal convictions, any past travels to war or conflict zones, and whether you have recently been subject of a decision requiring you to leave the territory of any country
Application Fee: €7
Find all of the details here.
Important Reminders
- Apply for an ETIAS travel authorization well in advance (do not wait until after you’ve planned the trip or booked accommodations)
- Your passport details MUST match those in your ETIAS authorization
- Your ETIAS travel authorization must be still valid
- Check how long you can stay in the European countries requiring ETIAS (depending on your visa)
- Your passport must be valid for three months after your intended departure from the European countries requiring ETIAS. If it’s not, you will not be able to enter the country at the border.
While it may seem like a lot, this visa process should be very quick and inexpensive.
If you have additional questions or want to find more up-to-date information, you can find ETIAS FAQs here.
