ETIAS Europe: what travelers should know ahead of the late 2026 launch
- Thor
- Jan 11
- 2 min read
The European Union is introducing ETIAS, a new travel authorisation for visitors who currently travel visa-free to many European destinations. This ETIAS Europe update is relevant for travelers planning trips in late 2026 and beyond. According to the EU’s official ETIAS guidance, ETIAS is expected to start operations in the last quarter of 2026.
This is not something most travelers need to act on today, but it is important for planning trips that fall in late 2026 and beyond.
Last updated: 11 January 2026
What is ETIAS
ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. It is a pre-travel authorisation that will be linked to your passport.
ETIAS is:
Not a visa
A requirement for short stays, normally up to 90 days in any 180-day period
A system that supports border checks, but does not guarantee entry on its own
For the EU’s official overview, see What is ETIAS.
ETIAS Europe start date
The EU’s Travel to Europe portal states that ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026, and that the EU will communicate the specific ETIAS Europe start date closer to launch.
For the latest official timeline, see the EU’s ETIAS homepage.
Who will need ETIAS Europe
ETIAS Europe applies to visa-exempt non-EU travellers visiting 30 European countries that require ETIAS.
ETIAS Europe eligibility
If you want to confirm whether ETIAS Europe applies to you, and which countries require it, use the official EU checker and country guidance on Who should apply.
ETIAS Europe fee and validity
EU guidance for ETIAS Europe states:
Application fee: EUR 20 (some travellers are exempt from paying the fee)
Validity: up to 3 years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first
See the EU’s official ETIAS explanation on fees and validity.
Key traveler impact of ETIAS Europe
Extra pre-trip step: You will need to apply online before you travel once ETIAS Europe is live.
Budget impact: Add EUR 20 per traveller (where the fee applies) to your trip costs.
Passport dependency: If you renew your passport, you will typically need a new ETIAS.
Border experience: ETIAS Europe supports border processes, but normal entry checks still apply.
Practical tips for ETIAS Europe trip planning in 2026
Do not apply early on unofficial sites. ETIAS is not operational yet. When the system opens, use only the EU’s official portals.
Keep your passport details consistent. Apply with the same passport you will travel on.
Plan around launch uncertainty. If you are travelling in late 2026, check official updates closer to departure.
Be cautious with ads and lookalike domains. Fake “ETIAS application” websites are a common travel scam pattern. Always start from the official EU site.
Official sources
Use these EU sources as your primary references:
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