The strength of a United States passport definitely spoils American travelers.
But that’s about to change ever so slightly in Europe.
From mid-2025, American nationals will need to apply for travel authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) prior to arrival. This ETIAS waiver will be necessary to enter 30 European countries.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new documentation Americans need to visit Europe.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Grace Cary
What is ETIAS, and will it ruin my vacation?
EU Travel Information & Authorization System, or ETIAS, is a travel authorization that US citizens (among other non-European travelers) will need to legally enter 30 European countries. This travel authorization is tied to your passport, so when you arrive in these 30 countries, passport control can see your approved authorization. It’s one very small extra step you need to take when planning your vacation.
Will ETIAS ruin your vacation? Highly unlikely.
We’ll walk you through the long and short of everything, but to put your mind at ease, know this: the ETIAS travel authorization is a simple application you need to fill out and most applications are processed within minutes.
What is the new visa scheme for Europe?
In the simplest terms, the EU wants to better control which and how travelers enter its borders. This proposed visa authorization change was decided on by the European Union years ago, but the actual execution of the scheme was delayed. The EU wants to strengthen its borders from potential threats to its citizens — and who could blame them? These threats are of the terror variety, mind you; not things like fashion faux pas Portia made in The White Lotus or the not-so “tres good” linguistic skills of Emily in Emily in Paris.
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When will these ETIAS changes take place?
ETIAS travel authorization will launch in 2025. At least, that’s what the latest news is. ETIAS was initially supposed to launch in 2020. Then 2022. Then 2023 and 2024. ETIAS might get pushed back again or it could get the green light. Either way, it’s important to stay up to date on ETIAS updates to ensure you meet the current entry requirements for each country.
Why was ETIAS delayed again to 2025?
ETIAS was delayed again to 2025 for a few reasons. The first is the launch of the European Entry/Exit System (EES), which needs to be in place to launch ETIAS. Another reason is that these two systems must meet certain EU General Data Protection Regulations. And yet another reason is that rolling out a brand new system in 2024 isn’t the best idea because of how many additional travelers are entering Europe for the Paris Olympics.
How does the new visa scheme change travel for US citizens?
Right now, you can hop on a plane to Europe and be allowed to enter places like Schengen Zone countries so long as you meet the country’s passport and customs requirements. If this new ETIAS visa program goes live, you’ll need to apply for an additional authorization to travel prior to arrival.
Which European countries need ETIAS visas?
Headed to Europe in 2025? The ETIAS changes will impact visa-exempt travelers entering these 30 European countries:
| Austria | Germany | Netherlands |
| Belgium | Greece | Norway |
| Bulgaria | Hungary | Poland |
| Croatia | Iceland | Portugal |
| Cyprus | Italy | Romania |
| Czech Republic | Latvia | Slovakia |
| Denmark | Liechtenstein | Slovenia |
| Estonia | Lithuania | Spain |
| Finland | Luxembourg | Sweden |
| France | Malta | Switzerland |
Does my ETIAS authorization get me into the UK?
No, the ETIAS authorization waiver is only for the countries listed above. England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland have their own entry requirements for US travelers.
And to clear up any confusion: The Republic of Ireland (cities including Dublin, Cork and Limerick) is not part of the United Kingdom, Great Britain, or the Schengen Zone, though it is a member of the European Union and will not require an ETIAS waiver. However, please note that Northern Ireland (cities including Belfast, Derry and Bangor) is a part of the United Kingdom.
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How will travelers apply for ETIAS?
You’ll need to fill out the ETIAS application form on its website or mobile app before you depart for Europe. And by before, we mean weeks before, not while you're waiting to board at your gate.
What do I need to apply for the ETIAS?
Applying for the ETIAS is a great reminder to check your passport expiration date. You’ll need a valid travel document, which includes a passport for US citizens. Your travel document (including a biometric passport/e-passport) cannot expire within 3 months of or be older than 10 years from when you apply for ETIAS.
Do I need to apply for an ETIAS every time I travel?
No, at least, most people won’t need to reapply for an ETIAS every time they travel. An approved ETIAS is valid for three years or until the travel document you provided (like your passport) expires. For example, if your passport is valid for one year, your ETIAS is valid for one year; if your passport is valid for four years, your ETIAS is valid for three years.
Important exception: If your passport didn’t expire, but you got a new passport (for instance, if you legally changed your name for marriage), you’ll need to reapply for ETIAS because the original ETIAS travel authorization is only tied to the initial passport.
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How much will an ETIAS visa cost?
The price to process an ETIA application is €7 ($8), though some travelers may be exempt from this fee.
Keep in mind that paying the fee and holding a processed application does not guarantee admittance into any country.
How long will the ETIAS authorization process take?
The process is super quick, with most applications getting processed in a matter of minutes. But just as train strikes can disrupt your trip, this application process can, too. Some applications may be delayed up to 30 days if you’re required to present more information or schedule an interview.
Again, plan to get this application processed as soon as you book your travel.
The good news is that, once your application is processed and accepted, it’ll last either until your passport expires or for three years, whichever comes first.
How early can you apply for ETIAS?
Once operational, you can apply for ETIAS as early as you’d like. We, and ETIAS, recommend applying as soon as you start purchasing your plane and train tickets. Most applications are accepted within minutes, others within four days, but some may take longer due to isolated application issues.
One thing to remember: the clock starts ticking when you apply for ETIAS. If you apply in 2025 and don’t travel until 2027, you’ll still have to reapply in 2028 when your ETIAS status expires.
Is it possible to apply without confirmed travel plans?
Yes, you can apply for the ETIAS without having confirmed travel plans. On your application, you need to list the country that you intend on visiting. Once your application is confirmed, you can change your plans and you’ll still be authorized to travel within the 30 ETIAS countries.
How do I apply for another person?
You can legally apply for an ETIAS for another person, but they will have to authorize this assistance. Authorization is easy: it’s just a matter of you and the person you’re applying for signed a declaration of representation (available on the ETIAS website).
Do Americans need a visa for Europe in 2024?
No, American citizens can travel to and through the Schengen Zone countries without a visa until the implementation of the scheme in mid-2025. That makes right now the perfect time to slide a trip to Europe in before you need to add another to-do to your travel list.
Download the Trainline app and let us help you navigate the Schengen Zone and beyond swiftly, safely, and visa-free in 2024.
As of 1/5/2024, this information is current. To find the latest information, please refer to the official ETIAS website.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Tetra Images
