Travel to Europe Hassle-Free from October 2026!
What is ETIAS and Why Do You Need It?
ETIAS isn’t a visa; it’s a digital travel authorisation for travellers from countries that currently don’t need a visa to enter the Schengen Area. This new system aims to enhance security by allowing pre-screening of travellers. If you’re an American, Canadian, or Australian citizen, or from any other visa-exempt country, and you plan to travel to Europe for tourism, business, or transit for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you’ll need an ETIAS authorisation.
Who Needs ETIAS?
ETIAS will be mandatory for all non-EU citizens from countries that currently don’t require a visa to enter the Schengen Area. This includes, among others, citizens from the United States, Canada, and Australia, as well as many other non-EU countries. The authorisation is required if your stay is for tourism, business, or transit, and doesn’t exceed 90 days.
What Do You Need for Your ETIAS Application?
Applying for ETIAS is done online, and to make the process as simple as possible, you’ll need the following:
- A valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area.
- A working payment method: A credit or debit card to pay the application fee.
- An active email address: Your authorisation will be sent digitally to this email address.
In addition, the application form will ask for:
- Personal information: Such as full name, date, and place of birth, gender, and contact details.
- Passport details: Including your passport number, issue date, and expiry date.
- Travel details: Including the first country of entry and your expected travel dates.
- Answers to security questions: Questions about your health, any past criminal convictions, and previous border control issues.
How Does the Application Process Work?
Our goal is to make the ETIAS application process as straightforward and efficient as possible for you. In most cases, the authorisation is granted automatically within minutes. In rare instances, if further checks are needed, processing might take longer.
Transitional and Grace Periods
It’s important to know that ETIAS won’t be mandatory immediately upon its introduction. There will be a six-month transitional period during which you can still travel to Europe without an ETIAS, provided you meet all other entry requirements. This will be followed by a six-month grace period, during which you can cross the external border without an ETIAS only if it’s your first visit since the end of the transitional period.
Validity and Usage
A approved ETIAS authorisation is valid for three years, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. Within this period, you can travel to Europe multiple times, provided you don’t stay longer than 90 days within any 180-day period.
Don’t wait until the last minute!
Fill out the form today and get your ETIAS authorisation easily!
After ETIAS is introduced, you’ll find the form here! Check back later!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is an electronic travel authorisation. It's not a visa, but a digital permit required for travellers from visa-exempt countries wishing to enter the Schengen Area. Its purpose is to enhance security and streamline border crossings.
When does ETIAS come into effect?
The ETIAS system will be introduced from October 2026. There will be a transitional and a grace period before it becomes fully mandatory for all affected travellers.
Who needs to apply for ETIAS authorisation?
ETIAS will be mandatory for all non-EU citizens from countries that currently do not require a visa to enter the Schengen Area. This includes, for example, US, Canadian, and Australian citizens. You'll need it whether you're travelling as a tourist, for business, or in transit, provided your stay doesn't exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
How long is the ETIAS authorisation valid for?
An approved ETIAS authorisation is valid for three years, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. Within this period, you can travel to Europe multiple times, but you must always adhere to the 90-day/180-day rule.
What do I need to submit an ETIAS application?
To apply online, you'll need a valid passport (valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure), a working payment method (e.g., credit card), and an active email address. You'll also need to provide personal details, passport information, travel details, and answer some security questions.
How long does it take to get ETIAS authorisation?
In most cases, the authorisation is granted automatically within minutes. In rare instances, if further checks are needed, processing might take longer. It's therefore advisable to apply well in advance of your trip.
Is ETIAS a visa?
No, ETIAS is not a visa. It's a travel authorisation for citizens of visa-exempt countries. It doesn't change your visa-exempt status, but it does require prior authorisation for travel.
What happens if my ETIAS application is rejected?
If your ETIAS application is rejected, you'll receive notification of the reason for the refusal. You'll have the option to appeal the decision, or if necessary, apply for a traditional visa at the embassy or consulate of the relevant Schengen country.
How long can I stay in Europe with ETIAS?
With an ETIAS authorisation, you can stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. If you wish to stay longer, you'll need a different type of visa or residence permit.