ETIAS Travel Authorization: New requirements to travel to Europe

What is the new requirement?

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) travel authorization is essentially a visa waiver for short term travel (less than 90 days). Starting in mid-2025, U.S. citizens are required to have this travel authorization to enter most European countries. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
 

When does it go into effect? 

Currently, the requirement goes into effect in mid-2025. However, this date is subject to change. 
 

What countries require this authorization?

• AUSTRIA • BELGIUM • BULGARIA • CROATIA • CYPRUS • CZECH REPUBLIC • DENMARK • ESTONIA • FINLAND • FRANCE • GERMANY • GREECE • HUNGARY • ICELAND • ITALY • LATVIA • LIECHTENSTEIN • LITHUANIA • LUXEMBOURG • MALTA • NETHERLANDS • NORWAY • POLAND • PORTUGAL • ROMANIA • SLOVAKIA • SLOVENIA • SPAIN • SWEDEN • SWITZERLAND
 

How do I apply for an authorization?

You can fill out an application form online at the official ETIAS website or use the ETIAS mobile application. The cost of obtaining this visa waiver is approximately €7 for 18-70 years old. Applicants under the age of 18 and over the age of 70 can apply for free. The ETIAS visa waiver is valid for 3 years. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorization