The European Union is delaying the implementation of the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) until late 2026.
The new system was meant to be introduced in May 2025 and would be applicable to countries in the Schengen Area. Travelers from around the world hoping to enter the EU would be required to complete an online form registering for their trip and pay a fee of just under eight euros.
The new registration has often been referred to as a “visa” though it offers a simplified process and more affordable fees compared to traditional tourist visas.
The EU now reports ETIAS will go into effect at the end of 2026 and claimed as of March 10 that “no action is required from travelers at this point.” Those who hope to travel to Europe in 2026 should look out for a start date, which the EU will announce several months before the new launch date.
Travelers from 60 countries outside the Schengen Area will need to apply for the ETIAS before traveling, find the full list of included countries here.
The system was developed to help the EU fortify border security, streamline traveler screenings, and monitor public health risks. While millions of tourists enter the Schengen Area yearly, the system ensures all travelers are pre-screened and accounted for prior to arrival.
When finally implemented, here’s what you will need to provide:
Valid travel documents which do not expire in less than three months and are not older than ten years. Information on your identity, including birthdate and place, nationality, address, email and phone number, as well as information on your occupation and education level and intended length of stay and place of visitation in the EU. Lastly, you will need to provide credit card info to pay the fee.
Once you’ve applied, approval is projected to take just minutes, so no need to wait a few days to receive permission to go, though we do advise your apply for your ETIAS well in advance to put it out of your mind ahead of your trip.
After approval, ETIAS is valid for up to three years for a period of 90 days out of 180 days (the usual permitted period of stay for non-EU citizens without a visa).
