Learn More About ETIAS Before Your Next Trip To Europe

17 October , 2022

Whether you already have set plans to travel to Europe or are hoping to travel at some point in the future, you need to be aware of and prepared for ETIAS. Starting in mid-2025 current travelers that don’t need a visa to visit EU countries in the Schengen Area will need to have an approved ETIAS visa waiver.

As you finalize your itinerary for your upcoming trip to the EU, we’re here to provide you with developing information regarding ETIAS. Read on for general requirements that you’ll want to keep top of mind throughout the entirety of your trip planning.

What Is ETIAS?

ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System. The European Commission announced its intentions to create and implement ETIAS in 2016 and is now on the verge of rolling out the program shortly to the public. It is a targeted effort to vastly improve the border security of EU member states, in light of recent terrorist attacks. ETIAS will pre-screen travelers coming from countries that don’t require a Schengen Visa.

It’s important to note that ETIAS is not a visa. Like the ESTA, it is a travel authorization for travelers not requiring a visa to visit Europe. It strictly allows entry and travel within the Schengen Area of the EU for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is valid for 3 years after issuance.

Which Countries Require An ETIAS?

The ETIAS for Europe will grant travelers authorization to visit numerous countries that are members of the Schengen Area. There are a total of 26 countries in the Schengen Area. These countries include:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Italy
• Iceland
• Liechtenstein
• Norway
• Latvia 
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Poland
• Portugal
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

Which Kind of Travelers Need An ETIAS?

The ETIAS system will be mandated for transit, tourism, and business travel. So whether you’re traveling to Europe for a work trip, a dream vacation, or trying out the digital nomad life, you’ll need to apply for an ETIAS. If an ETIAS is not approved, you will not be able to board the traveling vessel, whether it be a boat, airplane, or coach vehicle.

What Can I Expect On An ETIAS Application?

Completing an ETIAS application online should take no more than 10 minutes. Although ETIAS will not be live and accepting applications until mid-2025, you can expect the following:

Valid passport / Travel document information

• Full name
• Current address
• Citizenship status
• Sex
• Preferred gender
• Dual citizenship status
• Email address
• Telephone number
• Date of birth
• Final destination member state
• Educational background
• Occupational background

There is also a strong possibility that the application may inquire regarding:

• Criminal history
• Past incarceration
• Felon status
• Travel to conflict areas
• Past European travel
• Drug use

After you have submitted your application, you can anticipate that your ETIAS application will be processed instantly and that you will receive a notification of a decision within 96 hours or less. A small number of applications may take up to four weeks to process should additional documentation be required from the applicant. If your application happens to not be approved, you will not be able to enter a country within the European Union.

How Much Does An ETIAS Application Cost?

Regardless of where you’re hoping to travel in the Schengen Area, an ETIAS application will cost €7 EUR for individuals between the ages of 18 and 70. For people under the age of 18, or over 70, a fee will not be charged.

What Is Needed By The Time I Reach The Airport?

By the time you have your bags packed, and you’re on your way to the airport, there are some things you’ll want to have.

• Your ETIAS application should already be pre-approved
• You should have valid passport/travel document information

Should you not have these items complete or in hand, you will unfortunately not be able to complete your travel plans to the EU. We want you to feel confident, comfortable and have ample convenience throughout the entire process for your next European trip. Secure your ETIAS in 2025 and stay tuned for any and all updates!