A new requirement will go into effect in 2024 for U.S. passport holders who want to travel to Europe. Starting that year, they will need to apply for authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before visiting.
ETIAS is a security screening system that will allow the European Union to better manage short-term travel to the region. It will collect information about travelers, such as their name, passport number, travel history, and criminal record.
The application form for ETIAS will be available on the official ETIAS website as well as a mobile application. The fee for the application is 7 euros, or about $7.79 U.S. dollars.
Once you are approved for ETIAS, the authorization will entitle you to stay in European countries that require ETIAS for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The authorization is valid for three years, or until the travel document you used in your application expires, whichever comes first.
The ETIAS authorization is linked to a person’s travel document, such as a U.S. passport. Both documents will be needed to board a flight, bus or ship to enter any of the European countries that require ETIAS.
Similar to international border requirements with a passport, the ETIAS authorization doesn’t guarantee automatic right of entry. Border guards will verify that you meet the entry conditions, and anyone who does not meet the conditions will be refused entry.
The European Union encourages travelers to apply for an ETIAS authorization “well in advance of your planned journey.”
Here are some additional things to keep in mind about ETIAS:
- The application process is expected to be quick and easy. Most applications should be processed within minutes.
- If your application is refused, you will receive an email with the reasons for the decision. You will also be given information about how to appeal the decision.
- If you are traveling to Europe with children, they will also need to apply for ETIAS.
- ETIAS is not a visa. It is a travel authorization that allows you to stay in European countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
- If you are planning to stay in Europe for longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa from the appropriate European embassy or consulate.