ETIAS – The New Requirement to Travel to Europe

Global travelers planning European trips in 2025: be aware of the introduction of the ETIAS authorization.

Starting in May 2025, all tourists who have previously enjoyed visa-free access to Europe must apply for authorization through the Europe Travel Information and Authorization System, or ETIAS. This program will identify security risks, migration matters, and health considerations for visa-exempt visitors.

What Is ETIAS?

ETIAS (Europe Travel Information and Authorization System) will be a mandatory EU entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries. The ETIAS is a visa waiver, which allows eligible visitors to continue traveling visa-free.

The program is to help improve security and increase mobility in the EU and Schengen Area. The policy is due to be launched in 2025 and will become a mandatory Schengen entry requirement.

Visa waiver countries will be able to enter the EU with ETIAS and stay for up to 90 days for business or tourism purposes. Individuals who wish to stay in the EU for longer than 90 consecutive days, or to live, work, or study, must apply for a Schengen visa instead.

Is ETIAS a Traditional Travel Visa?

ETIAS may be mistaken for a traditional travel visa, but it is not. Unlike a visa, which is typically associated with a specific purpose of travel (e.g., tourism, business, short-term study), ETIAS is primarily a travel authorization. It facilitates tourism, business trips, and other short-term visits to the Schengen Area.

The European Union does require citizens of around 100 countries to have a Schengen Visa before traveling. This visa is used for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period, for tourism or business purposes.

While ETIAS grants access to multiple Schengen countries, it is not a work or residence permit. Corporate travelers planning to work or stay for an extended period in Europe may still need to apply for specific visas or permits depending on their intended activities.

Who Will Need to Apply for ETIAS?

Travelers who can currently visit the Schengen Area visa-free will need an ETIAS authorization before embarking to Europe. This includes U.S. citizens. The Schengen Area, comprising around 30 European countries, allows for passport-free travel within its borders. As a result, it is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

There are currently more than 50 countries that will be eligible to apply for ETIAS. The list of countries may continue to grow in the future.

Countries Requiring ETIAS Authorization as of 2025

Northern Europe	Southern Europe	Western Europe	Eastern Europe
Denmark	Croatia	Austria	Bulgaria
Estonia	Cyprus*	Belgium	Czech Republic
Finland	Greece	France	Hungary
Iceland	Italy	Germany	Poland
Latvia	Malta	Liechtenstein	Romania
Lithuania	Portugal	Luxembourg	Slovakia
Norway	Slovenia	Netherlands
Sweden	Spain	Switzerland

Will U.S. Citizens Need ETIAS?

Yes. Beginning in May of 2025, U.S. citizens will be required to obtain an ETIAS authorization before traveling to any of the Schengen Area countries. This requirement is part of the European Union’s efforts to enhance security and streamline border control processes.

How Much Does ETIAS Cost?

As of 2025, the fee for an ETIAS application is 7 euros, or 8 USD. It’s important to note that this fee is a one-time payment and is valid for multiple stays in the Schengen Area for up to three years or until the expiration of the traveler’s passport, whichever comes first. ETIAS is linked to your passport and cannot be transferred or extended.

How Does ETIAS Work?

ETIAS is an online system designed to pre-screen travelers before their arrival in Europe. It involves a straightforward application process, typically completed in just a few minutes. Travelers will need to provide personal information, passport details, and their intended travel itinerary during the application.

Once the application is submitted, it undergoes a rigorous security check. This involves cross-checking the provided information against various databases, including Interpol and Europol. The vast majority of travelers will receive their approved ETIAS authorization within minutes. In rare cases, additional documentation or verification may be required, leading to a longer processing time.

Basic ETIAS Application Requirements

There will be some basic ETIAS requirements that travelers will need to meet to obtain an ETIAS visa waiver. Each applicant will need to be a citizen from one of the ETIAS-eligible countries, complete the online application without inaccuracies or mistakes, and possess the following:

• Passport from an eligible country, valid for at least 3 months after departure from the ETIAS countries
• Debit or credit card to pay the ETIAS application fee.
• Email address to receive the approved document.

Travelers must have an up-to-date passport in order to apply. ETIAS is directly linked to your passport, so you will not be able to travel without both documents. If the passport expiration date is near, a renewal application will be required.

Travel Document Services with G3 Global Services

As the ETIAS is implemented, G3 Global Services will be fully equipped to accommodate all your travel document requirements. We will continue to share updates as new information becomes available. 

Travelers interested in applying for the ETIAS authorization with G3’s help should complete the online contact form or call (888) 883-8472  to schedule a consultation.