The European Union launches its long-delayed ETIAS system on 1 September 2026, mandating online pre-approval for citizens of 60 visa-exempt countries including the US, UK, Canada, Australia and Japan. Applicants pay a โฌ7 fee valid for three years or until passport expiry. Processing takes up to 96 hours with most approvals granted within minutes.
ETIAS links to existing databases including Interpol and Europol to flag security risks before departure. Travelers already holding valid Schengen visas or residence permits are exempt from the new requirement. The rollout follows two years of technical delays and pilot testing at major airports.
Background checks mirror similar systems already used by the US, Canada and Australia. The EU expects 1.2 billion annual queries once fully operational. Member states retain final entry decisions at borders despite ETIAS approval.
What this means for you
Apply via the official ETIAS website or app at least 72 hours before travel and keep the approval email with your passport. Families can submit group applications to reduce per-person costs. Avoid third-party sites charging inflated fees above the official โฌ7.
Carry a printed or digital copy of your ETIAS confirmation during the first months of rollout when airline staff may request verification. Monitor the official EU site for any last-minute adjustments to exempted nationalities.