New Travel Rules to Europe: ETIAS, EES & Passport Rules—What Non-EU Travellers Must Know

1) ETIAS in a nutshell

ETIAS is a pre-travel authorisation (not a visa) for visa-exempt travellers visiting the Schengen Area. It screens applicants before arrival, is expected to launch after EES is fully live, and will be valid for multiple short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).

• Who needs it? Travellers from ~60 visa-exempt countries (e.g., UK, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan).
• Where? Schengen Area countries (plus associated states when applicable).
• Fee: Currently communicated as €7; some press reports cite €20 for most adults—check official guidance at time of application.
• Validity: 3 years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first).

2) Applying for an ETIAS travel authorisation

Apply online (no embassy visit, no fingerprints). You’ll need a valid passport (ideally 3+ months beyond your planned departure), a payment card, and an email address.

1. Complete the online form (personal info, first country of entry, eligibility questions).
2. Pay the fee.
3. Monitor your email for the result or any additional information requests.

3) Processing your ETIAS application

Most decisions are issued within minutes after automated checks against European and international security databases. Some applications may take up to 96 hours, and in rare cases you could be asked for additional documents or an interview.

4) Once you’ve applied

Approved ETIAS are electronically linked to your passport. If you renew or replace your passport, you must apply for a new ETIAS. Keep an eye on your email in case the authorities request further details.

5) Validity period of your ETIAS

Valid for three years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first. Multiple entries allowed, but the 90/180 rule still applies.

6) On arrival at the border

ETIAS approval does not guarantee entry. Border officers can still refuse entry if you don’t meet conditions (security concerns, insufficient funds, no accommodation or return ticket, or if your authorisation was revoked).

7) What is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?

EES replaces physical passport stamps with a biometric and digital record of entries/exits for non-EU nationals. It captures fingerprints and a facial image on first entry after go-live and automates the tracking of the 90/180-day rule.

• 12 Oct 2025 → early 2026: EES launches and rolls out across external Schengen borders (biometrics on first entry).
• Late 2026 (Q4): ETIAS launch window. Transitional and grace periods may apply before it becomes fully mandatory.

“Clear communication is everything. By preparing for EES biometrics from October 2025 and applying for ETIAS as soon as it opens, travellers can avoid queues and last-minute surprises.”
— Nick Marr, Founder of HomesGoFast.com

9) Video explainer: ETIAS & EES

Watch this short explainer on what ETIAS is and how it fits with EES:

10) Quick travel checklist

• Check passport expiry (aim for 3+ months beyond your Schengen departure).
• Plan to apply for ETIAS before travel once live (expected Q4 2026).
• Allow extra time at borders from 12 Oct 2025 for EES biometrics.
• Track your 90/180 day allowance carefully.
• Carry proof of accommodation, funds, and a return/onward ticket.
• Use the same passport you applied with; renewals require a new ETIAS.
• Avoid scam sites; rely on official EU sources.

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