France, Poland, Germany, Italy, Norway, Croatia, Austria, Denmark, Iceland, Netherlands, and More Schengen Countries Forge a New Path with Bold ETIAS Mandate for UK and Non-EU Citizens

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

France, Poland, Germany, Italy, Norway, Croatia, Austria, Denmark, Iceland, & the Netherlands and other Schengen member states are changing the way Europeans travel with the upcoming launch of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). This is a brave move which means UK and non-EU nationals will need ‘permission’ in order to enter these countries. The measure is designed to bolster border security and to streamline travel while also reducing security risks by screening travelers before they arrive. And as these countries join the ranks of the ETIAS program, they’re changing the way foreign visitors enjoy Europe – making it more secure and more organized for the millions arriving on our continent.

Understanding ETIAS

ETIAS is a newly established travel authorization system aimed at streamlining the entry process for citizens of non-EU countries that do not currently require a visa for short visits to Europe. The system will apply to 30 countries, including some of Europe’s most popular travel destinations like Spain, France, Italy, and Greece. By implementing ETIAS, European authorities can better assess travelers’ security profiles before they enter the continent, ensuring a safer and more efficient travel experience.

Once approved, ETIAS will allow travelers to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It’s important to note that ETIAS will only be required for short stays and will not replace visas for longer durations. This makes it ideal for travelers who wish to explore multiple European countries during a short trip, offering them the flexibility to visit several Schengen countries on a single authorization.

Fees and Exemptions for ETIAS

Initially, the cost for obtaining ETIAS was set at 7 euros. However, it has since been revised to 20 euros per traveler. This fee will apply to all individuals aged 18 to 70, while those under 18 and over 70 are exempt. For a family of four, including two children, the total cost for all necessary authorizations would be 40 euros.

The ETIAS application process will be available online, making it a simple and affordable step for most travelers. The adjustment to the fee is designed to ensure the long-term operational success of the system, including its security measures.

When Will ETIAS Become Mandatory?

The ETIAS system has faced several delays, but it is now expected to be fully operational by the final quarter of 2026. After this, there will be a grace period before it becomes a strict requirement for entry into the Schengen Area. Travelers will have until 2027 to apply for ETIAS, after which it will be mandatory for all travelers visiting Europe from visa-exempt countries.

Countries Requiring ETIAS

Once ETIAS is launched, travelers will need to obtain authorization to enter the following European countries:

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

Additionally, Cyprus will implement ETIAS once it joins the Schengen Area, expanding the system’s coverage even further.

This widespread requirement will impact millions of travelers from the UK and other non-EU countries, ensuring a standardized and secure process for entering Europe.

ETIAS Application Process and Possible Refusals

The ETIAS application process is designed to be quick and straightforward, with most applications being processed almost instantly. However, there are certain reasons why an ETIAS application could be rejected. These include:

Submitting incorrect passport informationBeing flagged as a potential security riskHaving an alert on file in the Schengen Information System (SIS)Failing to complete the application properlyMissing a required interview (if applicable)

In the event of a refusal, travelers can appeal the decision and correct any issues that led to the rejection of their application.

Why ETIAS Matters for Europe

ETIAS is a crucial step in strengthening Europe’s border security and improving the efficiency of entry procedures. By implementing this system, authorities aim to enhance their ability to monitor travelers and prevent security risks before they reach the Schengen Area. ETIAS will allow for better data collection, giving European authorities a clearer picture of who is entering the continent.

Moreover, ETIAS will help streamline the entry process for non-EU travelers, making it easier for them to visit multiple European countries within a short timeframe, while still maintaining high security standards. This balance of efficiency and safety will be key in keeping Europe open to international visitors while safeguarding the region’s borders.

For those planning to travel to Europe in the near future, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the ETIAS application process, fees, and timeline. With the system set to launch soon, ETIAS will help Europe continue to welcome travelers while strengthening its security measures.