ETIAS Europe 2026: $23 Travel Authorization Fee Guide

Introduction

Americans planning European vacations in late 2026 face a new requirement that will cost $23 per person. The European Travel Information and Authorization System launches in the fourth quarter of 2026, requiring online pre-approval before visiting 30 European countries. The €20 fee applies to travelers aged 18 to 70, while children under 18 and seniors over 70 apply for free.

This authorization works like the ESTA system Americans use for visitors to the United States. The approval lasts three years or until your passport expires. The system won’t become mandatory immediately, with a six-month transitional period starting at launch followed by another six-month grace period.

What Is ETIAS and Why Does It Exist

The European Travel Authorization System

ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System. The program screens visa-exempt travelers before they board flights to Europe. The European Union created this system to strengthen border security and identify potential threats before visitors arrive on European soil.

The authorization is not a visa. Americans maintain their visa-free travel privileges but must obtain electronic approval first. The system connects to databases including Europol, Interpol, and the Schengen Information System to run security checks on each applicant.

Over 1.4 billion travelers worldwide will need ETIAS once fully operational. The EU estimates that 37 million visitors to Europe annually will require this authorization. Most applications receive automatic approval within minutes, though some cases take up to 30 days if additional verification is needed.

Security Screening and Border Management

The ETIAS system cross-references applicant information against multiple security databases. These checks scan for stolen passports, criminal records, immigration violations, and terrorism watchlists. Border authorities can identify security risks before travelers reach European airports.

The automated screening process runs immediately after submission. Approximately 99 percent of applications receive instant approval. The remaining 1 percent undergo manual review by ETIAS National Units within 96 hours. Complex cases requiring interviews or additional documentation can extend to 30 days.

This pre-screening approach mirrors systems already in place in other countries. The United States charges $21 for ESTA approval valid for two years. The United Kingdom recently implemented its ETA system at £10 ($13) for two years. Canada operates similar authorization requirements for visa-exempt visitors.

Alignment With Entry Exit System

ETIAS works alongside the Entry Exit System that began phased implementation in October 2025. The EES replaced manual passport stamping with biometric registration. Non-EU travelers now provide fingerprints and facial scans at border crossings.

The EES tracks entries and exits electronically. The system identifies travelers who overstay their permitted 90 days within any 180-day period. This database integration helps prevent visa overstays and illegal immigration.

Full EES implementation concluded in April 2026. ETIAS cannot launch until the EES operates across all Schengen border crossings. The six-month delay between systems allows border authorities and airlines to adapt to new procedures without overwhelming the infrastructure.

ETIAS Cost Breakdown for American Families

The €20 Fee Increase From Original €7

The European Commission announced the fee increase from €7 to €20 in July 2025. The tripled cost reflects rising operational expenses and inflation since the original fee was set in 2018. The higher amount brings ETIAS in line with similar travel authorization systems worldwide.

At current exchange rates, €20 equals approximately $23 for American travelers. The exact dollar amount fluctuates with currency markets. Travelers pay in euros through the official ETIAS website or mobile app using credit or debit cards.

The fee covers three years of validity or until passport expiration. Unlike visa applications that charge per trip, ETIAS allows unlimited entries during the authorization period. A family making multiple European trips over three years pays once rather than repeatedly.

The European Parliament and Council reviewed the fee proposal in late 2025. Barring objections, the €20 fee takes effect when ETIAS becomes fully operational in late 2026. No further fee increases are currently proposed, though inflation adjustments could occur in future years.

Fee Exemptions for Children and Seniors

Children under 18 years old do not pay the ETIAS application fee. Parents or guardians must still complete applications for minors, providing passport details and personal information. The authorization links to the child’s passport electronically.

Travelers aged 70 and older also receive fee exemptions. Senior citizens submit the same application as paying travelers but skip the payment step. The exemption applies to anyone who is 70 or older at the time of application submission.

Here’s how fee exemptions work for different family configurations:

Family Composition	Number of Applications	Total Fees Paid	Amount Saved
2 adults + 2 children (under 18)	4 applications	€40 ($46)	€40 ($46)
2 adults + 1 adult child + 1 child (under 18)	4 applications	€60 ($69)	€20 ($23)
2 adults + 3 children (under 18)	5 applications	€40 ($46)	€60 ($69)
1 adult + 1 senior (70+) + 2 children	4 applications	€20 ($23)	€60 ($69)
2 seniors (70+) + 2 children	4 applications	€0	€80 ($92)

Family members of EU citizens exercising free movement rights do not pay fees. This category includes spouses, children, parents, and grandparents of EU nationals. Applicants must provide documentation proving the family relationship to qualify for this exemption.

These exemptions reduce costs for families traveling together. A family of four with two children under 18 pays €40 total instead of €80. Two parents traveling with one adult child and one minor pay €60 instead of €80.

Comparing Costs to Other Travel Authorization Systems

The €20 ETIAS fee positions Europe between the UK and US systems. The United Kingdom’s ETA costs £10 ($13) and remains valid for two years. The United States charges $21 for ESTA authorization valid for two years.

Here’s how ETIAS compares to similar systems worldwide:

Country/Region	Authorization System	Cost (USD)	Validity Period	Annual Cost
European Union (30 countries)	ETIAS	$23 (€20)	3 years	$7.67/year
United States	ESTA	$21	2 years	$10.50/year
United Kingdom	UK ETA	$13 (£10)	2 years	$6.50/year
Canada	eTA	$5 (CAD 7)	5 years	$1/year
Australia	ETA	$13 (AUD 20)	1 year	$13/year
New Zealand	NZeTA	$10 (NZD 17)	2 years	$5/year

ETIAS offers longer validity than most comparable systems. The three-year authorization period exceeds the two-year validity of US ESTA and UK ETA. This extended timeline reduces the effective annual cost despite the higher upfront payment.

Traditional Schengen visas cost €80 for adults and involve embassy visits, interviews, and documentation requirements. ETIAS represents significant savings compared to full visa applications. The streamlined online process takes minutes rather than weeks.

Which Countries Require ETIAS Authorization

The Complete List of 30 European Countries

ETIAS applies to all 27 European Union member states. These countries include

France
Germany
Italy
Spain
Greece
Portugal
Netherlands
Belgium
Austria
Denmark
Sweden
Finland
Poland
Czech Republic
Hungary
Slovakia
Slovenia
Croatia
Romania
Bulgaria
Estonia
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Malta, and
Cyprus.
Iceland
Liechtenstein
Norway
Switzerland

Four European Free Trade Association countries also require ETIAS. Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland participate in the program despite not being EU members. These nations follow Schengen Area border rules.

Four European microstates with open borders fall under ETIAS requirements. Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City require authorization even though they are not independent Schengen members. Travelers entering these countries from authorized Schengen states need valid ETIAS.

Ireland does not participate in ETIAS. The country maintains independent immigration policies separate from the Schengen Area. American travelers to Ireland follow different entry requirements that do not include ETIAS authorization.

Popular Tourist Destinations Covered

The ETIAS requirement affects America’s most visited European destinations. France receives over 90 million international visitors annually. Italy attracts 65 million tourists each year. Spain welcomes 85 million visitors. All three countries will require ETIAS starting in late 2026.

Greece draws millions of Americans seeking Mediterranean islands and ancient history. Portugal’s coastal cities and wine regions remain popular with US travelers. The Netherlands hosts visitors exploring Amsterdam’s canals and tulip fields. Germany’s Christmas markets and castle routes attract year-round tourism.

Ski resorts in Austria and Switzerland require ETIAS authorization. Norwegian fjord cruises need approval. Croatian coastal towns along the Adriatic Sea fall under the requirement. Nordic countries including Sweden, Finland, Denmark, and Iceland all participate.

Business travelers to major European financial centers need ETIAS. London does not require it since the UK left the European Union, but Frankfurt, Paris, Amsterdam, and Zurich all do. Understanding airline loyalty programs that serve European routes can help frequent travelers maximize their points on transatlantic flights.

Countries Not Requiring ETIAS

The United Kingdom operates its own Electronic Travel Authorization system separate from ETIAS. British ETA costs £10 and applies different rules. Travelers visiting both the UK and EU countries need both authorizations.

Ireland maintains independent borders and does not require ETIAS. Northern Ireland, as part of the UK, follows British immigration rules. The Republic of Ireland has its own visa policies for American visitors.

Eastern European countries outside the Schengen Area use different entry requirements. Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Serbia, Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, and Turkey do not participate in ETIAS. These countries maintain separate visa policies.

Russia requires visa approval through traditional embassy processes. Americans traveling to Russia face different documentation requirements unrelated to ETIAS. The authorization only covers the 30 countries listed in the official program.

ETIAS Application Process Step by Step

Required Documents and Information

Applicants need a valid passport not older than 10 years. The passport must remain valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date from Europe. Expired or soon-to-expire passports cannot be used for ETIAS applications.

The online form requests comprehensive information organized into several categories:

Personal Information Required:

Full legal name exactly as shown on passport
Date of birth and place of birth
Nationality and citizenship status
Current home address with full details
Valid email address for notifications
Active phone number for contact
Current education level
Present occupation and employer information
Emergency contact person details

Travel Information Required:

First EU country you plan to visit
Whether staying in one country or visiting multiple nations
Purpose of travel (tourism, business, medical treatment, transit, family visit)
Intended dates of entry and departure
Address where you’ll stay in Europe

Security questions cover criminal history, war zones visited, recent deportations or entry refusals, and health conditions. Applicants declare whether they have been present in conflict areas in the past 10 years. Past immigration violations or border refusals must be disclosed.

Completing the Online Application Form

Access the official ETIAS website at travel-europe.europa.eu when the system launches in late 2026. Avoid third-party websites charging inflated fees. Scam sites add service charges turning the €20 fee into €50 or more.

The official ETIAS mobile app offers the same application process. Both platforms connect to the central EU database. Applications take approximately 10 to 20 minutes to complete for most travelers.

Enter passport information exactly as it appears in the document. Spelling errors or mismatched names cause automatic rejections. The system links the authorization to specific passport numbers, so accuracy matters.

Review all information carefully before submission. The €20 application fee is non-refundable even if the application is denied. Mistakes cannot be corrected after submission, requiring new applications and additional fees.

Payment Methods and Processing Times

The ETIAS system accepts major credit cards and debit cards. Payment processes securely through encrypted banking channels. The system does not store financial information after completing transactions.

Most applications receive approval within minutes of submission. Automated systems check the information against databases and issue immediate authorization. Applicants receive email confirmation with authorization details.

Approximately 1 percent of applications require manual review. ETIAS National Units examine these cases within 96 hours. Additional information requests extend processing time up to 14 days. Interview requirements can push timelines to 30 days.

Apply at least two to three weeks before planned travel dates. Last-minute applications risk processing delays that could disrupt trip plans. The authorization becomes active immediately upon approval and remains valid for three years.

Grace Periods and Transitional Timeline

Six Month Transitional Period Explained

ETIAS launches in the fourth quarter of 2026, likely October or November. The exact date will be announced by EU authorities several months in advance. When the system goes live, a six-month transitional period begins.

During this first six months, ETIAS remains optional. Travelers can enter the 30 European countries without authorization as long as they meet all other entry requirements. Border authorities encourage applications during this time but won’t refuse entry solely for lacking ETIAS.

Airlines and ferry operators use this period to update their systems. Check-in processes integrate ETIAS verification within 48 hours before departure. Transport companies must confirm passengers have valid authorization before allowing boarding.

Travelers who obtain ETIAS during the transitional period can use it immediately. The authorization remains valid for three years from approval date. Early adoption helps avoid the rush when the requirement becomes mandatory.

Six Month Grace Period for First-Time Visitors

distorted map of Europe with countries resized by population of major cities labeled like London, Paris, Berlin, Netherlands, Ireland, Denmark, poland, ireland, UK, switzerland and other european countries.

After the transitional period ends around April 2027, a six-month grace period begins. This second phase introduces different rules for first-time and returning visitors.

First-time arrivals to Europe since the end of the transitional period can still enter without ETIAS. Border guards verify that travelers haven’t visited the ETIAS zone since April 2027. Passport stamps or entry records determine first-time status.

All other travelers must have valid ETIAS authorization during the grace period. Anyone who visited Europe during the transitional period or before needs approval. Repeat visitors cannot rely on the grace period exemption.

The grace period provides additional flexibility for travelers who weren’t aware of the new requirement. It also reduces border congestion as the system scales up to full capacity. This phased approach prevents overwhelming airports and border crossings.

Full Enforcement Beginning October 2027

Approximately one year after initial launch, ETIAS becomes strictly mandatory for all eligible travelers. The October 2027 date marks full enforcement across all 30 participating countries.

Here’s the complete ETIAS implementation timeline:

Phase	Timeframe	Requirement Status	Who Needs ETIAS
Pre-Launch	Before Q4 2026	Not required	No one
Transitional Period	Q4 2026 – Q2 2027 (6 months)	Optional but encouraged	No one, but recommended for all
Grace Period	Q2 2027 – Q4 2027 (6 months)	Required for repeat visitors	Anyone who visited Europe during/after transitional period
Full Enforcement	October 2027 onward	Mandatory for all	All eligible travelers without exception

After this point, airlines refuse boarding to passengers without valid ETIAS authorization. Border guards deny entry to travelers arriving without approval. No exceptions apply beyond the specified fee exemptions for children, seniors, and EU family members.

Travelers face significant disruption if caught without ETIAS. Airlines may charge rebooking fees for return flights. Hotels and prepaid activities become non-refundable losses. Trip insurance may not cover lack of required travel authorization.

The phased rollout gives travelers nearly a year to adapt to the new requirement. EU officials designed this timeline to minimize confusion and border delays. Monitoring flight delays and cancellation rights becomes even more important when new documentation requirements affect boarding.

How ETIAS Affects Your European Travel Plans

Booking Flights and Accommodations

Purchase flights and book hotels only after securing ETIAS authorization. Most approvals arrive within minutes, but processing delays occasionally occur. Confirming authorization before buying non-refundable tickets prevents financial losses.

Airlines integrate ETIAS verification into booking systems. Check-in processes require authorization confirmation numbers. Without valid ETIAS, airlines cannot issue boarding passes for flights to the 30 participating countries.

Travel booking websites and online travel agencies add ETIAS reminders to European bookings. Some platforms include links to the official application site. Third-party booking engines cannot apply for ETIAS on behalf of travelers.

Package deals including flights and hotels still require individual ETIAS applications. Tour operators cannot submit group applications. Each family member needs separate authorization linked to their own passport.

Multiple Country Visits on One Authorization

A single ETIAS approval grants access to all 30 participating countries. Travelers visiting France, Italy, and Spain on the same trip use one authorization. No separate applications are needed for each country visited.

The system tracks entries and exits electronically through the Entry Exit System. Travelers can freely move between ETIAS countries during the valid period. Border checks between Schengen nations typically do not occur for authorized travelers.

The 90-day limit applies collectively across all ETIAS countries. Spending 30 days in France, 30 in Italy, and 30 in Spain exhausts the 90-day allowance. Additional visits require waiting until the 180-day calculation period resets.

Cyprus has unique calculation rules separate from other ETIAS countries. Time spent in Cyprus does not count toward the 90-day limit in other ETIAS nations. Cypriot stays are calculated independently, allowing up to 90 additional days there.

Passport Validity and Renewal Considerations

ETIAS authorization links directly to passport numbers. Renewing a passport invalidates existing ETIAS approval. Travelers must apply for new ETIAS when they obtain new passports.

Plan passport renewals carefully around ETIAS applications. Apply for passport renewal first, then submit ETIAS applications using the new passport number. This sequence prevents wasting the €20 fee on authorization that expires with the old passport.

The three-year ETIAS validity period ends when passports expire, whichever comes first. A passport expiring in two years limits ETIAS validity to two years. Renewing the passport requires reapplying for ETIAS.

Check passport expiration dates before European trips. Many travelers forget the three-month validity requirement beyond departure dates. Passports expiring too soon lead to border refusals even with valid ETIAS authorization.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Third-Party Website Scams

Dozens of unofficial websites mimic the official ETIAS portal. These scam sites rank highly in search results and look legitimate. They charge inflated fees of €50 to €100 while the official fee is €20.

How to Identify and Avoid ETIAS Scams:

Only use the official website: travel-europe.europa.eu
Verify the URL before entering any personal information
Look for “.europa.eu” domain (not .com, .net, or .org)
Avoid sites offering “expedited processing” for extra fees
Be suspicious of sites charging more than €20
Check for official EU logos and security certificates
Read reviews before using any third-party service

Warning Signs of Fraudulent Sites:

Service fees added on top of the €20 application cost
Claims of “guaranteed approval” or “fast-track processing”
Requests for unnecessary personal information
No clear connection to EU authorities
Poor grammar or spelling in website content
Pressure tactics urging immediate application

Some fraudulent sites collect personal information and payment details but never submit applications. Travelers arrive at European airports believing they have authorization only to be denied boarding. Lost money and disrupted trips result from these scams.

The official ETIAS mobile app comes from EU authorities listed in phone app stores. Bookmark the correct site before the system launches to avoid confusion. Commercial intermediaries can legally apply on your behalf for service fees. Only use trusted travel agencies or immigration services if you need assistance. Verify company credentials and read reviews before providing personal information or payment.

Application Errors That Cause Delays

Spelling mistakes in names or passport numbers trigger automatic rejections. The system matches applications to passport data exactly. Minor typos prevent the authorization from linking to your passport correctly.

Incomplete applications cannot be submitted. All mandatory fields require responses. Skipping questions about criminal history or previous immigration violations causes processing delays when reviewers request missing information.

Mismatched travel dates confuse border authorities. Enter intended departure dates accurately. While ETIAS allows flexibility, drastically different actual travel dates from application dates raise red flags.

Using expired or soon-to-expire passports wastes application fees. Verify passport validity extends at least three months beyond your planned departure. Check expiration dates before starting the application process.

Waiting Until the Last Minute

Applying for ETIAS the day before departure risks missing flights. Even though most applications approve within minutes, 1 percent require manual review taking days. Processing delays during high-volume periods extend timelines further.

System outages or technical problems occasionally affect online applications. Government websites experience downtime during peak usage. Travelers attempting last-minute applications during technical issues miss boarding deadlines.

Family travel complicates last-minute applications. Each family member needs separate authorization. Processing multiple applications simultaneously while packing and preparing for departure creates unnecessary stress.

Submit applications at least two to three weeks before travel dates. Early application allows time for processing delays, information requests, or appeals if necessary. Confirmed authorization provides peace of mind while completing other travel preparations.

Special Situations and Exceptions

Dual Citizens and Multiple Passports

Dual citizens holding both EU and American passports do not need ETIAS. Entering and exiting Europe using the EU passport exempts travelers from authorization requirements. The EU document proves citizenship in a member state.

Travelers must use the same passport for ETIAS application and actual travel. Applying with an American passport then traveling with a Canadian passport causes border problems. The authorization links specifically to one passport number.

Some countries allow passport renewal before expiration. Travelers holding both old and new passports face authorization questions. ETIAS ties to the new passport number if that’s the document you’ll carry during travel.

Dual citizenship can simplify European travel significantly. EU citizenship provides residence rights beyond the 90-day limit. Non-EU passport holders married to EU citizens may qualify for fee exemptions as family members exercising free movement rights.

Traveling With Children and Minors

Every child needs individual ETIAS authorization regardless of age. Infants, toddlers, and teenagers all require separate applications. Minors cannot be added to parent applications as dependents.

Parents or legal guardians complete applications on behalf of children under 18. The application process is identical except for the fee exemption. Submit all required information using the child’s passport details.

Children under 18 at application time do not pay the €20 fee. If the child turns 18 while ETIAS remains valid, the authorization continues working. No reapplication is needed simply because the traveler reached adulthood.

Divorced parents sharing custody should coordinate ETIAS applications. Both parents can apply for the child using their own contact information. The authorization links to the child’s passport, not the applying parent’s details.

Business Travel and Long-Term Stays

ETIAS covers short-term business trips up to 90 days within 180-day periods. Business purposes include meetings, conferences, negotiations, trade shows, and corporate training. The authorization does not permit employment or work activities.

Travelers intending to work in Europe need proper work visas. ETIAS specifically prohibits employment activities. Remote workers employed by American companies cannot use ETIAS to work while staying in Europe long-term.

Students studying in Europe for more than 90 days require student visas. Short educational programs under 90 days qualify for ETIAS authorization. Contact the consulate of your destination country for specific student visa requirements.

Long-term stays beyond 90 days require national visas from individual countries. ETIAS serves short-term visitors only. Residence permits and long-stay visas follow different application processes through national immigration authorities.

What Happens If ETIAS Is Denied

Common Reasons for Application Rejection

ETIAS applications face rejection for various reasons related to security, documentation, and compliance issues. Understanding these common denial reasons helps travelers avoid preventable mistakes.

Passport-Related Rejections:

Passport issued more than 10 years ago
Passport expiring within 3 months of planned departure
Damaged passport not meeting international standards
Passport information mismatched with application data

Security and Background Issues:

Matches in Schengen Information System alerts
Records in Interpol stolen passport databases
Criminal records in Europol databases
Previous immigration violations including overstays
Past deportations from EU countries
Outstanding warrants or legal issues

Application Accuracy Problems:

Incomplete application forms with missing mandatory fields
False statements about criminal history
Undisclosed travel to conflict zones
Inaccurate information verified against databases

Public health or epidemic risks may lead to rejections. During disease outbreaks, travelers from affected regions face additional scrutiny. ETIAS National Units evaluate health-related risks on case-by-case bases.

The Appeals Process

Rejected applications include written explanations outlining specific denial reasons. Notifications provide information about the competent authority handling the case. Time limits for filing appeals appear in rejection letters.

Appeals must be submitted to the ETIAS National Unit of the country that processed the application. Different member states operate separate appeal procedures. Follow the specific instructions provided in your rejection notice.

Appeal deadlines typically range from 30 to 90 days depending on the country. Missing appeal deadlines prevents reconsideration of the application. Submit appeals promptly after receiving rejection notifications.

Gather supporting documentation to address denial reasons. Criminal record expungements, medical clearances, or explanations of past immigration issues strengthen appeal cases. Legal representation may help with complex situations.

Alternative Options After Denial

Apply for a limited validity ETIAS if you have humanitarian reasons or important obligations for travel. This special authorization permits entry to specific countries for specific purposes. Limited validity ETIAS does not provide the same broad access as standard authorization.

Apply for a traditional Schengen visa through national embassies if ETIAS is denied. Visa applications involve more documentation and longer processing times but may succeed when ETIAS fails. Consular officers review circumstances individually.

Consider visiting European countries outside the ETIAS zone. The United Kingdom and Ireland do not participate in ETIAS. Eastern European nations like Ukraine or Serbia maintain independent border policies.

Reapply for ETIAS after addressing the issues that caused denial. The €20 fee applies to each new application. Correcting passport problems, resolving outstanding warrants, or updating information may lead to approval on subsequent attempts.

ETIAS Compared to Other Entry Systems

Differences From Traditional Visas

ETIAS requires no embassy visits or in-person interviews. The entire process happens online through the official website or mobile app. Traditional visas require appointments at consulates and submission of physical documents.

Visa applications cost €80 for adults and involve extensive paperwork. Schengen visa processing takes several weeks. ETIAS approvals arrive within minutes for 99 percent of applicants at one-quarter the cost.

Visas grant single or multiple entries for specific purposes. ETIAS allows unlimited entries for any permitted purpose during the three-year validity period. The authorization provides greater flexibility than restrictive visa conditions.

ETIAS does not replace visa requirements for non-exempt countries. Citizens of nations requiring Schengen visas continue using traditional visa processes. ETIAS only applies to the 59 visa-exempt countries already enjoying visa-free European travel.

Similarities to US ESTA System

ETIAS closely mirrors the US ESTA program implemented in 2009. Both systems pre-screen visa-exempt travelers before arrival. Online applications request personal information, passport details, and security questions.

ESTA costs $21 and remains valid for two years. ETIAS costs €20 ($23) and lasts three years. Both programs deny boarding to travelers without valid authorization. Airlines face penalties for transporting unauthorized passengers.

Both systems provide nearly instant approvals for most applicants. Manual reviews affect small percentages of applications. Security database checks scan for criminal records, terrorism watchlists, and immigration violations.

The key difference is coverage area. ESTA applies only to United States entry. ETIAS covers 30 European countries with a single authorization. American travelers familiar with ESTA understand the ETIAS concept immediately.

UK ETA and Other Regional Programs

The United Kingdom launched its Electronic Travel Authorization in April 2025. UK ETA costs £10 ($13) and remains valid for two years. The system operates independently from ETIAS.

Travelers visiting both the UK and EU countries need both authorizations. A trip including London and Paris requires UK ETA for England and ETIAS for France. The systems do not share information or approvals.

Canada’s eTA costs just CAD 7 ($5) and lasts five years. Australia charges AUD 20 ($13) for one-year authorization. New Zealand’s NZETA costs NZD 17 ($10) for two years. These programs reflect global trends toward pre-travel screening.

The proliferation of authorization systems complicates international travel. Travelers must track multiple application requirements, fees, and validity periods. Mobile apps and travel websites increasingly include authorization reminders and links.

Preparing for Your First ETIAS Application

Creating an Account and Saving Information

The official ETIAS website allows users to create accounts before the system launches. Account creation will become available as the October 2026 launch approaches. Saved profiles store personal information for faster applications.

Store passport details, home addresses, emergency contacts, and travel information in your profile. When applying for authorization, the system auto-fills saved information. Manual entry is required only for trip-specific details.

Family accounts let parents manage applications for multiple children. One login accesses all family member profiles. This centralization simplifies tracking expiration dates and renewal requirements.

Email addresses must remain active throughout the three-year validity period. ETIAS notifications about approval status, expiration reminders, and system updates arrive via email. Update email addresses if they change during the authorization period.

Gathering Required Documents Beforehand

Scan or photograph your passport information page. Digital copies speed up data entry during applications. Verify passport expiration dates and plan renewals before applying for ETIAS.

Compile travel history including past visits to conflict zones. The application asks about presence in war zones within the past 10 years. Accurate dates and locations prevent processing delays from incomplete answers.

Gather criminal record documentation if applicable. Minor infractions often don’t prevent approval, but accurate disclosure matters. Legal documents explaining resolved cases or expungements support applications.

Payment card information should be ready before starting applications. The system processes payments immediately upon submission. Interrupted applications due to payment problems require starting over.

Best Practices for Family Applications

Complete applications for all family members in one session. Coordinating submission times ensures everyone has authorization before booking flights. Staggered approvals complicate travel planning.

Double-check passport numbers for each family member. Mixing up children’s passport information causes rejections. Verify each child’s full legal name matches their passport exactly.

Save confirmation numbers for all family authorizations. Store them in password managers or travel apps. Airlines require authorization numbers during check-in processes.

Set calendar reminders for expiration dates three years in the future. ETIAS renewal should happen before planning your next European trip. Early renewal prevents last-minute scrambles before departure dates.

Conclusion

The ETIAS requirement represents a significant change for American travelers planning European vacations starting in late 2026. The €20 ($23) fee applies to most travelers aged 18 to 70, while children and seniors receive exemptions. The three-year validity period and unlimited entries make this authorization worthwhile compared to traditional visa costs and restrictions.

The phased implementation provides nearly a year of flexibility through transitional and grace periods. Travelers visiting Europe between October 2026 and October 2027 benefit from relaxed enforcement while the system scales up. Full mandatory compliance begins approximately one year after launch.

Early adoption makes sense for anyone planning European travel in 2026 or 2027. Applying two to three weeks before departure prevents last-minute stress and processing delays. The 99 percent instant approval rate means most travelers receive authorization within minutes of submission.

Understanding ETIAS requirements helps travelers avoid booking mistakes and border problems. Proper planning ensures smooth journeys through the 30 participating countries. As authorization systems become standard worldwide, staying informed about entry requirements protects travel investments and prevents disrupted trips.

For more travel tips and updates on evolving airline policies, visit our travel blog regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need ETIAS if I’m only transiting through a European airport?

Yes, ETIAS is required even for airport transit if you leave the international transit area. Travelers connecting through European airports to reach destinations outside the ETIAS zone need authorization. If you remain in the international transit area without passing through immigration, ETIAS is not required. However, most travelers changing airlines or collecting baggage go through border control, making ETIAS necessary.

How long does ETIAS approval last and can it be renewed?

ETIAS authorization remains valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can enter the 30 participating countries as many times as you want during this period, respecting the 90-day stay limit within any 180-day period. When your ETIAS expires, you must submit a new application and pay the €20 fee again. The renewal process is identical to initial applications, requiring the same information and documentation.

What happens if my passport expires before my ETIAS does?

Your ETIAS authorization becomes invalid when your passport expires, even if the authorization’s three-year validity period hasn’t ended. The system links ETIAS directly to passport numbers. When you receive a new passport, you must apply for new ETIAS authorization using the updated passport information. The €20 fee applies to the new application. This is why it’s important to coordinate passport renewals with ETIAS applications.

Can I apply for ETIAS using one passport and travel with another?

No, you must travel using the same passport you listed on your ETIAS application. The authorization links specifically to one passport number and cannot be transferred. If you hold multiple passports, choose which one you’ll carry during your European trip and apply for ETIAS using that document. Some dual citizens may not need ETIAS if they hold EU passports.

Is ETIAS required for children traveling with parents?

Yes, every traveler regardless of age needs individual ETIAS authorization. Infants, toddlers, and teenagers cannot be included on parent applications. Parents or legal guardians complete separate applications for each child using the child’s passport information. Children under 18 are exempt from the €20 fee, but the application process is otherwise identical to adult applications.

What if I’m denied ETIAS authorization?

If your application is rejected, you’ll receive written notification explaining the denial reasons and information about appeals. You can appeal the decision to the ETIAS National Unit of the processing country within the specified timeframe, usually 30 to 90 days. Alternatively, you can apply for a traditional Schengen visa through national embassies, which involves more documentation but may succeed despite ETIAS denial. The €20 application fee is non-refundable even after rejection.

Does ETIAS replace my passport?

No, ETIAS is a travel authorization that supplements your passport, not a replacement. You must carry your valid passport when traveling to Europe. The ETIAS authorization links electronically to your passport number. Border guards scan passports to verify both the document validity and the associated ETIAS approval. Having ETIAS without a valid passport will result in denied boarding and entry.

Can I work in Europe with ETIAS authorization?

No, ETIAS only permits short-term stays for tourism, business visits, medical treatment, transit, and family visits. You cannot work or study long-term with ETIAS. Business activities include meetings, conferences, and trade shows, but not employment. Remote workers employed by American companies cannot use ETIAS to work while staying in Europe. Employment requires proper work visas and permits from individual countries.

How does the 90-day limit work across multiple countries?

The 90-day limit applies collectively across all ETIAS countries during any 180-day period. This means you can spend up to 90 days total in all participating countries combined, not 90 days per country. If you spend 60 days in France, you have only 30 days remaining for Italy, Spain, or any other ETIAS country within that 180-day window. Cyprus calculates its 90-day limit separately from other ETIAS countries.

What should I do if I travel to Europe before ETIAS launches?

If you visit Europe before the October 2026 ETIAS launch, you won’t need authorization. When the system becomes operational, there will be a six-month transitional period where ETIAS is encouraged but not mandatory. For travel during or after the transitional period, apply for ETIAS at least two to three weeks before your departure date to ensure timely approval and avoid boarding issues.

Are there any countries in Europe that don’t require ETIAS?

Yes, the United Kingdom and Ireland do not participate in ETIAS. These countries maintain independent immigration policies separate from the Schengen Area. The UK has its own Electronic Travel Authorization system called UK ETA. Eastern European countries outside the Schengen Area, such as Ukraine, Belarus, Serbia, Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Kosovo, have separate visa requirements and do not use ETIAS.

Can I get a refund if my ETIAS application is denied?

No, the €20 ETIAS application fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. If your application is rejected, you lose the fee and must pay again if you submit a new application. This is why it’s crucial to provide accurate information and ensure your passport meets all requirements before submitting your application. Review all information carefully to avoid costly mistakes that lead to automatic rejections.