Woman standing in front of the city of Lisbon and river down below

ETIAS: Do Americans Need a Visa for Europe Now? Here’s What You Need to Know

ByMikala Whitaker Posted on Updated on

Preparations for a trip to Europe are going to start looking different for Americans who will soon have to apply for a travel authorization called ETIAS in order to visit. Fortunately, while the EU initially announced this would become a requirement in 2024, they pushed it to mid-2025.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorization System. The EU intends for it to enhance security and make arrival smoother for visitors. It is not a visa. Unlike a visa, you will be able to apply online and will not need to visit a consulate.

How do I know if I need to apply?

The travel authorization is only for travelers to Europe who come from countries that are visa exempt. Visa-exempt countries include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and a number of others. See the full list on the ETIAS website.

If you come from one of those countries and are planning a short-term stay, then you will need to apply for the authorization. If you’re visiting Europe for a student, work, or other visa, then you do not need to apply.

Does ETIAS apply to all European countries?

Here’s the full list of countries requiring the travel authorization:

List of countries requiring ETIAS authorization
List of countries requiring ETIAS authorization, courtesy of the ETIAS website

Can I register for this travel authorization upon arrival or do I have to apply in advance?

You will need to apply online in advance.

What do I need to do to apply?

You can’t apply at this time since it’s not yet in operation. Once in place, you will need to submit personal information, passport details, information about your trip, and any information on past criminal convictions or travels to war. See the full list of details on the ETIAS website.

You’ll also need to make sure your passport is not older than 10 years and will remain valid for three months or longer.

How much does the application cost?

For most travelers, the application will cost 7 euros. Applicants under 18 or older than 70 do not need to pay the fee.

How long does it take to process?

According to the ETIAS website, most applications will be processed within minutes. Some applications may take longer and need up to 30 days of processing though, so it will be best to apply at least a month before your trip.

Two people holding passports up together in a European city square
Photo by Spencer Davis on Unsplash

What do I need to bring with me through customs?

The travel authorization is tied to your passport, so you will just need to bring your passport with you through customs per usual. Make sure your passport details align with your travel authorization or you will be refused entry at the border.

How long is ETIAS valid? Do I need to apply before every trip?

The travel authorization is valid for three years or until your passport expires.

This is not a comprehensive list of information and is only intended to cover the scenarios I suspect are most common among readers. Please see the ETIAS website for more information.

View of Lisbon, Portugal from above with text that says, "ETIAS: Do Americans Need a Visa for Europe Now? Here's What You Need to Know"
Two people holding passports up together in a European city square with text that says, "Do Americans Need a Visa for Europe Now? Here's What You Need to Know"

Mikala Whitaker is owner and founder of The Unanchored Passenger. She focuses her blog on providing information and inspiration to help others travel more. She provides tips for solo travel, resilience after heartbreak, and unconventional living. When she's not writing, she's traveling and enjoying time with her greyhound, Carson.