Europe ETIAS travel requirements will go into effect in 2024, requiring further documentation to enter 30 European nations such as Italy, France, Spain, and more. The ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System and is not to be confused with VISA, Visitors International Stay Admission.
While ETIAS will be a required additional step to improve international security, it is not as time consuming as applying for a VISA. Learn about ETIAS requirements for Americans and the key differences between a European VISA below.
What is ETIAS?
The European Travel Information and Authorization System is a new requirement to travel and stay at any of the 30 participating European countries for 90 days or less.
Who is impacted by ETIAS?
ETIAS applies to travelers without a resident or permit to live in those 30 European countries. Any VISA-exempt national from the following countries is required to apply for ETIAS before traveling to Europe in 2024. United States is currently a VISA-exempt country, so Americans will require ETIAS to travel to participating European countries.
What countries require ETIAS?
30 European countries will require ETIAS. The United Kingdom is not requiring this new authorization.
Do I need an ETIAS for every country?
You do not need an individual ETIAS for every European country you plan to visit. According to the ETIAS website, “your ETIAS will be checked at the external Schengen border, you can then travel around the (European) zone without further checks.”
When will the new requirements begin?
ETIAS was originally scheduled to roll out in 2022. Due to COVID delays, it is expected to launch in early 2024.
How to apply for ETIAS?
Once active, Americans traveling to Europe in 2024 can apply for ETIAS online. The application will take only a few minutes.
What documents do you need for ETIAS?
- Valid passport
- Payment card
Are ETIAS and VISA the same?
ETIAS and VISA are not the same. Americans will not require a VISA to travel to Europe. VISA, Visitors International Stay Admission, is a different document and Americans are VISA-exempt. This graphic illustrates the key differences between ETIAS and VISA:
How much does ETIAS cost?
ETIAS is 7 Euros, which is currently $7.63.
How long is ETIAS valid?
An ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport’s expiration date, depending on which comes first.