British travellers heading to popular European destinations such as Spain, Greece, and France will soon face an additional fee under a new travel authorisation scheme. Following Brexit, UK passport holders are required to register with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to enter most European nations.
What is ETIAS?
The ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals visiting a group of 30 European countries. With a valid ETIAS, travellers can enter these countries for short-term stays, typically up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Cost and Exemptions
Initially expected to cost €7 per person, the fee has now been confirmed at €20 per eligible traveller. However, those under 18 or over 70 are exempt from the charge. For example, a family of four with two children would pay €40 in total.
Implementation Timeline
The scheme has faced several delays. The EU's Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs estimates that ETIAS will launch in the final quarter of 2026, followed by a grace period, making it compulsory from 2027.
Affected Countries
The ETIAS will be required for travel to: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. It will also apply to Cyprus once it joins the Schengen area.
Application Process
Most applications are expected to be approved almost immediately. However, applications may be refused due to an invalid passport, being deemed a risk, having a Schengen Information System alert, submitting an incomplete application, or failing to attend a mandatory interview. If rejected, travellers have the right to appeal.
