What is ETIAS, and how does it work for UK citizens?
System comes into force this year
British citizens must apply for an ETIAS in the coming years before entering several European Union (EU) countries. But what exactly is ETIAS, and how does it work? Here is everything you need to know about this new travel requirement.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, a system introduced by the EU in September 2018. Its primary goal is to enhance the security of the EU’s Schengen Area by collecting data on travellers visiting the 26 countries within the Schengen Zone without a visa. The system allows authorities to assess any potential security risks visitors pose before entering the EU.
Importantly, ETIAS is not a visa but a visa waiver, similar to the ESTA system used for entry into the United States. While the ETIAS provides travel authorisation, it does not replace the need for a visa in countries that still require one from certain nationals.
Who will need ETIAS to travel to Europe?
British citizens do not require a visa to visit EU countries, and ETIAS has not yet been operational. The European Union has confirmed that the system will launch in mid-2025, though the exact start date has yet to be announced.
Once the system becomes active, UK nationals will need to secure approval to enter any of the Schengen Area countries, as well as three additional European nations:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
UK nationals must obtain an ETIAS authorisation to visit any of these countries.
Will I need ETIAS?
The ETIAS system is expected to be rolled out by mid-2025, but until then, UK travellers can continue to visit EU countries without needing an ETIAS.
When does ETIAS launch?
The EU has confirmed that ETIAS will become operational sometime in mid-2025, though a specific start date has not yet been confirmed. The system will operate on a grace period for the first six months after launch, meaning it will not be strictly enforced. Travellers who apply for ETIAS will benefit from quicker processing at customs. However, those who fail to use during this period can still enter the Schengen Zone if they meet the eligibility requirements.
However, it is anticipated that ETIAS will be fully enforced from early 2026, and travellers without authorisation may be turned away at the border.
How to apply for ETIAS
Applying for ETIAS is straightforward and can be completed entirely online. Once the system launches, UK citizens must use at least 96 hours (three days) before their planned departure to any Schengen Area country or one of the three additional nations (Cyprus, Iceland, and Romania).
To apply, travellers will need:
- A valid passport with at least three months of validity remaining.
- Personal details, including full name, date of birth, nationality, and address.
- Information about the countries they plan to visit within the Schengen Area.
Once submitted, the application will be processed, and in most cases, travellers will receive an ETIAS authorisation within minutes. The ETIAS will be valid for three years from the approval date and can be used for multiple trips.
For dual passport holders (e.g., a UK and EU passport), it is essential to note that ETIAS is only required when using a non-EU passport. If travelling with an EU passport, travellers can bypass the need for ETIAS and enter the Schengen Area as usual.
Costs and exemptions
The cost for an ETIAS application is €7, which must be paid online during the application process. However, there are some exemptions: if the traveller is under 18 or over 70, they will not be required to pay the fee.
Although most people will apply for ETIAS themselves, someone else can use it on a traveller’s behalf in certain circumstances. If this occurs, both parties must sign a declaration of representation to confirm the application process.
Duration of stay and travel rules
While the ETIAS is valid for three years, UK nationals are still bound by the same travel rules that apply to tourists in the EU. UK visitors can stay up to 90 days within 180 days in the Schengen Area.
If a traveller intends to stay longer or work or study in the EU, they must apply for a specific visa relevant to their purpose of visit. The ETIAS does not permit work or study in the EU.
Travel insurance and health coverage
Although travel insurance is not mandatory for UK citizens travelling to the EU, it is strongly recommended. Comprehensive travel insurance will protect against travel delays, lost belongings, and other common disruptions and offer essential healthcare coverage, particularly in an emergency.
Conclusion
The ETIAS system represents a significant change for UK travellers heading to the EU. It is designed to improve security and streamline the entry process. While it will not be mandatory until mid-2025, British citizens must stay informed about the application process and the associated requirements to avoid any last-minute complications when travelling to Europe in the future.
Image: The EU has confirmed that ETIAS will become operational sometime in mid-2025. Credit: Vicente Viana Martínez
Last Updated on 6 hours by News Desk 2
