Scottish holidaymakers travelling to Spain, France, Italy and other European destinations will soon face a new 20 euro fee per person under the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
ETIAS launch and cost
Following Brexit, Scots and other UK passport holders must register with ETIAS to access Spain and 29 other European destinations. The compulsory travel authorisation applies to all visa-exempt nationals visiting Schengen area countries and Cyprus.
The cost has nearly tripled from the original seven euros to 20 euros per person. Travellers under 18 or over 70 are exempt, meaning a family of four with two children would pay 40 euros total.
Delays and implementation
The programme has faced multiple delays, with the most recent postponement linked to difficulties implementing the Entry/Exit System (EES). The EES requires biometric registration including fingerprints and facial photographs upon initial EU entry.
ETIAS will be held digitally alongside passports and follows the model of the US ESTA scheme. A transitional phase of at least six months is planned, during which the ETIAS website states: "travellers should apply during that time, but those without ETIAS will not be refused entry if they meet all other requirements."
Travel requirements
The system will be required for travel to 30 European nations including popular destinations like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. Valid ETIAS authorisation allows multiple entries for short-term stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
However, having ETIAS won't guarantee entry as border guards retain the right to deny admission if other standards aren't satisfied.
