Brits heading to Europe document from the start of 2025. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to any of the 30 countries in the region. It will cost €7 for travellers aged 18 to 70.
It is free for people younger or older than this. The ETIAS, linked to your passport, is valid for up to three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. So, if you're due for a new passport, you'll also need to apply for a new ETIAS.
The official EU website advises applying for an ETIAS well ahead of your trip. According to the ETIAS website, the system is set to kick off in the first half of 2025, but watch out for an exact date later this year. There are 30 European countries that will require visa-exempt travellers to have an ETIAS travel authorisation.
With a valid ETIAS, travellers can enter these 30 European countries as often as they wish for short-term stays, typically up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it doesn't guarantee entry, reports . Travellers can apply for an ETIAS via the ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile app.
Applications carry a €7 fee, but those under 18 and over 70 years old are exempt from the charge. Also exempt are family members of EU citizens or of non-EU nationals who have the right to move freely throughout the European Union. Most applications will be processed within minutes.
Remember, your ETIAS travel authorisation is tied to your travel document. So,.