For decades, millions of people have been able to travel to Europe with little more than a valid passport and a return ticket. But starting in 2026, that will change. The European Union (E.U.) intends to launch the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) program, requiring all visa-exempt travelers to obtain pre-clearance to enter 30 European countries.
Fortunately, the ETIAS application process is relatively straightforward, so don’t let it deter you from planning your future European vacation. Here’s what you need to know about ETIAS, including whether or not you need to obtain it.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System. It’s an electronic travel authorization established by the E.U. that certain travelers will need to obtain in order to enter 30 European countries.
ETIAS is not a visa, but simply an authorization for travel. It will be digitally attached to your passport, so you shouldn’t need to present a physical version to a border agent when entering Europe.
While ETIAS is an entry requirement for those countries for many travelers, obtaining one does not guarantee entry into them, as you still must meet other entry requirements, such as having a valid passport.
Who needs to get ETIAS?
Travelers who do not need a visa for Europe will need to obtain ETIAS. That means all travelers from more than 60 visa-exempt countries who are traveling to Europe for a short stay (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) will need ETIAS. If you already hold a valid national visa or residence permit for Europe, ETIAS doesn’t apply to you. E.U., EEA and Swiss nationals are also exempt from the requirement.
Do U.S. Citizens need ETIAS to travel to Europe?
Most U.S. citizens will need ETIAS to travel to Europe. However, U.S. citizens who have received a visa to travel to Europe, such as students or workers, will not need ETIAS. That’s because ETIAS is specifically for visa-exempt travelers.
Which countries in Europe require ETIAS for entry?
The following countries will add ETIAS to their entry requirements (source: etias.com):
Your ETIAS application in 3 steps
How early should you apply before traveling?
The E.U. recommends applying for ETIAS before you book your travel to Europe. In other words, you should apply as soon as possible. The ETIAS approvals process is largely automated, and most applicants (around 95-97%) will be approved within minutes. However, if the E.U. requires you to submit additional documents and/or attend an interview, the process may take up to 30 days.
Visa for Europe: what if you stay longer than 90 days?
ETIAS is not a visa, and it is limited to travelers spending up to 90 days within a 180-day period in Europe. If you plan on staying in Europe longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa through the embassy of the country in which you plan on spending the majority of your time. If you do not have a visa and you stay in Europe longer than 90 days, you may be subject to fines, travel bans and deportation.
Will your travels to Europe be impacted?
If you are a U.S. citizen or a citizen of any other visa-exempt country, it is likely that your travels to Europe will be impacted. You will need to apply for ETIAS in advance of your trip. Once ETIAS is operational and mandatory, carriers (air, sea and land) will be required to verify a traveler’s ETIAS before boarding, and border authorities will require a valid ETIAS to admit visa-exempt travelers.
Conclusion
While ETIAS adds an extra step for many individuals traveling to Europe, it’s a fairly straightforward and affordable process. Just be sure to apply well in advance of your trip once the ETIAS program goes into effect in 2026.
Frequent questions about the new “visa” for Europe
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about ETIAS.
Yes. Minors from visa-exempt countries must have an approved ETIAS linked to their travel document, but applicants under 18 are exempt from the application fee. Ensure each child has their own passport or travel document details entered on the application.
ETIAS is linked to a specific travel document and expires when that passport expires. If you get a new passport, you must apply for a new ETIAS using the new passport details before travelling.
Yes, ETIAS allows multiple short stays during its validity period. Each stay is limited to 90 days within any 180-day period. The ETIAS itself remains valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
If you will enter a country that requires ETIAS (e.g., disembark a cruise port or pass through immigration), you need ETIAS. If you remain airside in an international transit area and never pass border control, ETIAS is generally not required, but check the airline/port and destination rules before travel.
If denied, you’ll receive notification with reasons and information on next steps. Options typically include reapplying with corrected or additional information or applying for a national visa through the relevant country’s consulate.
Yes. Airlines and other carriers are likely to check ETIAS before boarding and can deny boarding if you lack required travel authorization, so obtain ETIAS before your departure.
The foregoing article was last updated in December 2025. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information.
Sources:
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
https://etias.com/
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/schengen.html
https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/schengen-borders-and-visa/smart-borders/european-travel-information-authorisation-system_en
