UK citizens planning trips to Europe will soon face new travel requirements under the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). This visa waiver, set to launch in 2025, will apply to visitors from visa-exempt countries, including the UK.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is not a visa but an online travel authorisation required for short stays in the Schengen Zone. Similar to the US ESTA system, it aims to enhance border security by pre-screening travellers.
Key Details for UK Travellers
- Cost: €7 per application (free for under-18s and over-70s)
- Validity: Three years or until passport expiry
- Processing Time: Most approvals within minutes
- Required For: Stays up to 90 days within 180-day period
How to Apply
The online application will require:
- Valid passport
- Credit/debit card for payment
- Email address
- Basic personal and travel information
Approval is typically granted within minutes, though some applications may take up to 30 days if additional checks are needed.
Which Countries Require ETIAS?
The waiver will be mandatory for travel to 30 European countries, including popular destinations like France, Spain, Italy, and Greece. Note that Ireland is not part of the scheme.
Implementation Timeline
While originally planned for 2024, ETIAS is now expected to launch in mid-2025. A six-month grace period will follow before enforcement begins.
Travel experts advise checking official EU sources for updates as the launch date approaches to avoid any last-minute surprises for your European getaways.
