Published on
January 3, 2026
From late 2026 onwards, travelers from visa-exempt nations like the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, Brazil, and several others will need to secure approval through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before entering Europe. This measure is being put in place to strengthen Europe’s border security, streamline the screening process, and enhance public health monitoring. As international travel continues to rise, ETIAS will play a crucial role in managing the influx of visitors, ensuring that only those who pass the necessary security checks are granted access to the Schengen Area.
Starting in late 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, will need to apply for a new pre-travel authorization under the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This system aims to enhance border security, streamline traveler screening, and monitor public health risks. If you’re planning to visit Europe in the future, here’s everything you need to know about this upcoming requirement.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization system that will collect essential personal details, passport information, and travel history before granting approval for travel to Europe. The system will cross-check the provided information with international security databases like Interpol and Europol to detect any potential security threats, creating a more thorough screening process for travelers.
ETIAS will serve as a safeguard to ensure travelers entering Europe do not pose a security risk, particularly regarding public safety and health. It is a proactive measure by the European Union to improve the management of its borders amid the growing number of international travelers.
Who Needs ETIAS?
Travelers from 60 visa-exempt countries will be required to apply for ETIAS to visit the Schengen Area countries in Europe. This includes nations such as the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, Brazil, South Korea, and several others. If you plan to travel to any of the 30 European countries requiring ETIAS, you will need to apply for pre-travel authorization.
The complete list of countries whose citizens will need to apply for ETIAS includes:
United States
Canada
Australia
Japan
Brazil
Argentina
Mexico
South Korea
Israel
New Zealand
United Kingdom
Uruguay
Albania
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Australia
Bahamas
Barbados
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Brazil
Brunei Darussalam
Chile
Colombia
Costa Rica
Dominica
El Salvador
Georgia
Grenada
Guatemala
Honduras
Hong Kong
Macedonia
Malaysia
Mauritius
Mexico
Micronesia
Montenegro
Nicaragua
Palau
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Republic of Moldova
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Samoa
Serbia
Seychelles
Singapore
Solomon Islands
South Korea
Taiwan
Timor-Leste
Tonga
Trinidad and Tobago
Tuvalu
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
Uruguay
Venezuela
How Does ETIAS Work?
The application process for ETIAS will be straightforward and entirely online. Travelers will need to submit personal information such as their name, nationality, passport details, and travel plans. The system will also ask about prior travel history to ensure the individual poses no security threat.
Once submitted, the system will cross-check the information against global databases to identify any risks. Most applications will be processed within minutes, with travel authorization approval sent via email.
ETIAS Fees
The application for ETIAS will come with a fee of approximately €20 (around $23) for most adult applicants. However, individuals under 18 or over 70 years old will not have to pay this fee. Once granted, ETIAS will be valid for a period of three years, or until the expiration of the traveler’s passport, whichever comes first. This authorization will allow multiple trips to Europe within the validity period without needing to reapply.
Why is ETIAS Being Implemented?
The primary goal of ETIAS is to bolster Europe’s border security and streamline the traveler screening process. By requiring travelers from visa-exempt countries to go through a pre-screening process, European authorities can identify potential security threats before they arrive at the border. Additionally, ETIAS will allow for better management of public health risks, which is particularly important in light of recent global health challenges.
The system will also improve the flow of travelers, making border crossings more efficient by ensuring that every visitor has been properly vetted before arriving in Europe.
When Will ETIAS Be Required?
The European Union is set to implement the ETIAS system in late 2026. While the specific date has not yet been confirmed, travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the United States, should begin preparing for this change. Once ETIAS is in place, all travelers will need to complete the application process before traveling to Europe.
How Long is ETIAS Valid For?
Once granted, ETIAS will be valid for three years or until the traveler’s passport expires—whichever comes first. This means that frequent travelers will benefit from a long-term authorization for multiple trips to Europe within the given validity period without having to reapply.
The ETIAS system, launching in late 2026, is set to revolutionize border security and traveler screening in Europe. U.S. travelers, along with those from other visa-exempt countries, will need to apply for ETIAS before traveling to Europe. The process is simple, cost-effective, and valid for up to three years, ensuring a smooth journey to the Schengen Area countries. Stay informed and ready for this essential change to avoid travel disruptions.ge to avoid any travel disruptions.
