What is ETIAS?
ETIAS — the European Travel Information and Authorisation System — is an electronic travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers visiting the Schengen Area for short stays. It is not a visa: it is a quick, online pre-travel check linked to your passport, much like the US ESTA or the UK ETA. Once approved, it lets you travel to Europe for tourism, business, or transit without applying for a full visa.
When does ETIAS start?
As of 2026, ETIAS is not yet required. The European Union expects the system to become operational in the last quarter of 2026. For at least the first six months there will be a transitional period — travellers without ETIAS will not be turned away as long as they meet all other entry conditions — after which it becomes fully mandatory during 2027. ETIAS follows the Entry/Exit System (EES), which began its rollout in October 2025.
Who needs ETIAS?
If you currently travel to Europe visa-free — for example citizens of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and around 60 other countries — you will need an approved ETIAS before you board a flight or ship, or cross a land border, into the Schengen Area. If you already hold a Schengen visa or a residence permit, you do not need one. You can check whether your nationality and destination require ETIAS in seconds.
How much does ETIAS cost?
The official government fee is €20 per application. Applicants who are under 18 or over 70 at the time of application are exempt and pay nothing, as are certain family members of EU citizens. Be cautious of websites charging far above the €20 government fee while adding no real service.
How long is ETIAS valid?
An approved ETIAS is valid for three years, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. During that time you can make multiple short trips, subject to the 90/180-day rule.
How long does approval take?
The EU estimates that the large majority of applications — more than 95% — are approved automatically within minutes. A minority take longer: up to 96 hours, or up to 30 days if you are asked for extra information. Apply well before you travel rather than at the airport.
How to prepare
Confirm your visa requirements, make sure your passport meets Europe's validity rules, and have your travel details ready. Charta Visa is an independent private service (not a government website) offering a guided application with a pre-submission review and passport-expiry reminders.
Frequently asked questions
Is ETIAS a visa?
No. ETIAS is a travel authorisation, not a visa. It is a fast online pre-travel check linked to your passport, similar to the US ESTA — far simpler than a traditional Schengen visa.
When will ETIAS be required?
The EU expects ETIAS to become operational in the last quarter of 2026, with a transitional grace period, becoming fully mandatory during 2027.
How much does ETIAS cost?
The official fee is €20 per application. It is free for applicants under 18 or over 70, and for certain family members of EU citizens.
How long is ETIAS valid?
Three years, or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. It allows multiple short stays under the 90/180-day rule.
Do children need ETIAS?
Yes — every traveller needs their own ETIAS, including children. However, applicants under 18 are exempt from the €20 fee.