ETIAS: What You Need to Know Before Traveling to Europe in 2025

Starting in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia will need to complete a new requirement to visit Europe: the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This isn’t a visa but a quick, mandatory pre-travel authorization for short stays in Europe’s Schengen Area.

What is the Schengen Area?

The Schengen Area includes 27 European countries that allow free movement without internal border checks, like a single travel zone. This includes most EU nations (excluding Ireland) and non-EU members like Norway, Iceland, and Switzerland.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization similar to the U.S. ESTA system. Travelers from countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia will need to apply online before departure. The application requires personal information, travel history, and a fee of approximately €7 for adults (free for those under 18). Most applications will be approved within minutes, with a validity of three years or until the applicant's passport expires.

How long does ETIAS last?

Once your ETIAS application is approved, it is valid for three years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. This means if your passport has less than three years of validity left, you will need to reapply for ETIAS when you renew it. During its validity, ETIAS allows for multiple entries into the Schengen Area, as long as each stay doesn’t exceed 90 days within any 180-day period. This flexible arrangement is perfect for frequent travelers, whether you’re exploring Europe on business, vacationing, or visiting family.

Why does ETIAS matter?

ETIAS is a new travel requirement scheduled to begin in March 2025 that simplifies the entry process while prioritizing security. Without a valid ETIAS authorization, airlines will not permit you to board flights to Europe, and border officials won’t allow you to enter the Schengen Zone. This makes ETIAS as important as your passport or boarding pass.

ETIAS also supports a more streamlined border experience for travelers. With pre-screening, border checks are faster, allowing you to spend less time waiting and more time enjoying your destination.

Next Steps

If this topic sounds familiar, it's possibly because I've send you information about this in a previous email.  I've been tracking it for a few years watching for updates and fluctuating start dates, and it looks to be officially launching in Spring 2025.

I’ll personally ensure my clients are prepared for ETIAS when it launches and will track renewal dates for you. Just one less thing for you to worry about when hiring me as your travel advisor!

Have questions about how ETIAS impacts your travel plans? Feel free to reach out—I’m here to make your trips as stress-free as possible.