ETIAS Explained: Travel Rules for UK Citizens

If you’re a UK national planning to take a short trip to a European country, or wanting to travel around Europe, under current rules you don’t need to apply for a visa. However, this will soon change, as electronic travel authorisation will be needed in the form of an ETIAS visa waiver.

The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is an electronic travel authorisation required for visa-exempt visitors to the Schengen Area. Set to launch in 2025, it aims to enhance security, manage migration risks and streamline border procedures. Although not a visa, ETIAS authorisation must be obtained before travel and will be valid for short-term stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Key risks for travellers include the possibility of application errors or omissions, which could lead to a rejected application. Without ETIAS approval, entry to Schengen countries will not be permitted, potentially disrupting travel plans. It is important to ensure that the required documentation and accurate personal details are submitted during the application process.

For organisations and businesses, ETIAS brings additional considerations. Employers need to ensure employees travelling to Europe for business purposes are aware of and compliant with ETIAS requirements to avoid potential delays or interruptions. The system also includes a small fee, which must be factored into travel expenses.

Planning ahead and allowing sufficient time for authorisation are essential to prevent last-minute issues.

In this guide for British travellers, we explain the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System, and the rules relating to European travel for non-EU nationals.

 

What is ETIAS?

 

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a forthcoming electronic travel authorisation designed to screen visitors from countries, including the UK, who are entitled to visa-free entry into the Schengen Area.

The Schengen Area is a borderless travel zone in Europe where internal borders have been abolished between member countries, allowing passport-free travel. This area includes 22 EU member states: Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Lithuania, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. Additionally, four non-EU countries—Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland—and three microstates—Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City—are part of the Schengen Area.

Bulgaria, Cyprus, Croatia, and Romania are in the process of joining the Schengen Zone. Once full membership is achieved, travellers to these countries from visa-exempt nations will also require ETIAS authorisation.

Currently, nationals from visa-free countries, including UK citizens, are not pre-screened before travelling. ETIAS will require these travellers to obtain electronic travel authorisation before entering a Schengen member country via air, land, or sea.

The primary objective of ETIAS is to bolster European border security by cross-checking traveller information against multiple online security databases. This process will identify potential risks associated with visa-exempt travellers, such as security, health, or migration concerns. ETIAS operates similarly to the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), allowing approved individuals to travel to all eligible Schengen countries.

ETIAS is not a visa but will soon be a mandatory document for eligible travellers, including minors. All travellers must apply online for authorisation before their trip. Since Brexit, British passport holders are considered non-EU citizens. As such, they will be required to secure ETIAS approval for travel to the Schengen Area once the system is operational in 2025.

 

What will ETIAS allow and not allow?

 

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will permit UK tourists and business travellers to visit Schengen member countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period for purposes such as transit, tourism, or business activities.

Permissible activities under ETIAS include:

 

• Transiting through multiple Schengen countries.
• Tourism, such as sightseeing or holidays in one or more Schengen countries.
• Visiting friends and family residing in a Schengen country.
• Seeking medical treatment or care in a Schengen country.
• Attending work-related conferences, seminars, or meetings in a Schengen country.

 

Once admitted into the Schengen Area with an ETIAS authorisation, travellers can move freely between member countries.

However, ETIAS does not permit:

 

• Engaging in paid employment within Schengen countries.
• Enrolling in educational courses or academic studies.
• Establishing residence or long-term stays beyond 90 days in any 180-day period.

 

For these activities, individuals must apply for the appropriate national visas or permits corresponding to the specific purpose and duration of their stay.

 

Who will be eligible to apply for ETIAS?

 

More than 60 countries currently enjoy visa-free access to the Schengen Area. Once ETIAS is implemented, nationals from these countries, including UK citizens, will be required to obtain an ETIAS visa waiver before travelling to a Schengen member country. Additional countries may be added to the eligibility list in the future.

To qualify for an ETIAS visa waiver, travellers must:

 

• Be a national of a visa-exempt, non-EU country.
• Be visiting the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
• Be travelling for approved purposes, such as tourism, business, or transit.

 

Third-country nationals who require a Schengen visa to travel to Europe will not be eligible for ETIAS. The Schengen visa remains a requirement for individuals from non-visa-exempt countries, allowing short stays in the Schengen Area for purposes like tourism or business. For non-EU nationals living in the UK who do not qualify for visa-free travel, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to travel.

It is important to note that EU countries outside the Schengen Area have their own entry requirements. These countries include Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Georgia, Ireland, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Russia, Serbia, Turkey, and Ukraine. Separate visas may be required for travel to these nations.

 

Do UK citizens need ETIAS now?

 

Under the current rules, UK citizens do not need an ETIAS travel authorisation to visit Schengen Area countries. ETIAS is expected to become operational in 2025. Once implemented, UK nationals will be required to obtain an ETIAS authorisation for short-term stays (up to 90 days within any 180-day period) in Schengen countries.

It’s important to note that while ETIAS will become mandatory in 2025, there will be a transitional period during which applications will be accepted but not yet required for travel. After this, a grace period will follow where ETIAS will be required, but travellers entering the ETIAS zone for the first time since the start of the transitional period will still be allowed entry without it.

Therefore, UK travellers planning trips to Europe in 2025 and beyond should stay informed about the ETIAS implementation timeline and ensure they obtain the necessary authorisation once it becomes mandatory.

 

When will ETIAS visa waivers become mandatory?

 

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is scheduled to become operational in 2025. Once in effect, obtaining an ETIAS travel authorisation will be a mandatory entry requirement for nationals from all visa-exempt countries, including the UK. There will be a transitional period of at least six months during which applying for ETIAS will be optional, allowing travellers and carriers time to adapt to the new system. Following this, a grace period of at least six months is planned, during which travellers should have an ETIAS travel authorisation, but those without one will not be denied entry if they fulfil the remaining entry conditions.

UK travellers should be prepared to register online for ETIAS travel authorisation once the system is operational. Although registering may not be compulsory during the initial months, it will be encouraged to facilitate smoother travel. The exact dates for the transitional and grace periods have not yet been confirmed, so travellers should regularly check the official ETIAS website for updates.

Schengen member countries are expected to start publishing information about the new travel authorisation as the implementation date approaches. Passengers may receive informational materials at Schengen border checkpoints, and these should also be available at embassies and consulates of Schengen member countries where mandatory ETIAS registration will apply.

 

How to make an ETIAS application

 

Although ETIAS will soon become a mandatory entry requirement for travel to all Schengen member countries, the application process is designed to be simple and efficient. Travellers will need an internet connection, a device such as a tablet or computer, and a valid biometric passport. They must also provide an email address and a debit or credit card to pay the ETIAS fee. The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended period of stay in the Schengen Area.

The ETIAS system has been established to enhance border security by electronically verifying the eligibility of travellers from visa-exempt countries. Information provided by applicants will be cross-checked against EU and international security databases, including those managed by Europol and Interpol. Most applications will be processed automatically and approved within minutes. Applicants will not typically be required to attend an interview or provide biometric data.

To complete the ETIAS application, travellers must provide personal details, travel plans, and passport information. They will also need to answer security questions regarding health, criminal background, and visits to conflict zones. This process enables the system to assess eligibility and identify any potential risks.

While most applications will be processed within minutes, some may require manual review due to discrepancies or potential issues, which could take up to four weeks. If an application is denied, the applicant may be asked to provide additional documentation and has the right to appeal the decision. Without ETIAS approval, travellers will not be allowed to enter Schengen countries unless they obtain a visa.

Carriers, such as airlines or ferries, will check for valid ETIAS authorisation before allowing passengers to board. However, border officials at Schengen entry points will make the final decision on granting entry, even with an approved ETIAS.

Currently, ETIAS is not operational, and applications are not yet being accepted. Once the system is implemented, travellers will be able to apply for ETIAS via the official website.

 

How much will it cost to apply for ETIAS?

 

ETIAS will require applicants to pay a fee of €7. This fee applies to individuals aged 18 to 70; applicants under 18 or over 70 are exempt from payment.

Payment is the final step in the ETIAS application process. Once the fee is paid using a valid debit or credit card, the application is automatically submitted for review. Alternative payment methods, if available, will be specified on the official ETIAS website.

If the payment fails or is declined, the application will not be processed. Applicants should ensure they have sufficient funds, that their payment card is active, and that there are no internet connectivity issues during the transaction. Upon successful payment and approval, applicants will receive notification via the email address provided in their application.

Please note, as of now, ETIAS is not operational, and applications are not being accepted. Once implemented, applications can be submitted through the official ETIAS website or mobile application.

 

How long will ETIAS be valid for?

 

ETIAS is scheduled to become operational in 2025. Once implemented, it will require visa-exempt travellers, including UK citizens, to obtain authorisation before visiting Schengen Area countries.

An approved ETIAS travel authorisation will be valid for three years or until the associated passport expires, whichever occurs first. During this validity period, travellers can enter participating European countries multiple times, staying up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

After the ETIAS authorisation expires, travellers must apply for a new authorisation before returning to any Schengen member country. It’s important to note that holding a valid ETIAS does not guarantee entry; border authorities will verify entry conditions upon arrival.

 

ETIAS Visa FAQs

 

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. It is an electronic travel authorisation required for visa-exempt travellers visiting Schengen Area countries for short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

 

Who needs to apply for ETIAS?

Nationals of more than 60 visa-exempt countries, including UK citizens, will need to apply for ETIAS before travelling to the Schengen Area once the system is operational.

 

How do I apply for ETIAS?

Applications will be completed online via the official ETIAS website. You will need a valid biometric passport, an email address, and a debit or credit card to pay the €7 fee (applicable for travellers aged 18–70).

 

How long will ETIAS be valid?

ETIAS authorisation will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

 

How long does it take to get ETIAS approval?

Most applications will be processed within minutes. However, in some cases, additional checks may require up to four weeks for approval.

 

Can I enter multiple countries with one ETIAS?

Yes, ETIAS allows you to travel freely between Schengen member countries during its validity, as long as your total stay does not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period.

 

What happens if my ETIAS application is denied?

If your application is denied, you will receive an explanation and have the right to appeal. You may also need to provide additional documentation or apply for a visa.

 

Will ETIAS guarantee entry to Schengen countries?

No, ETIAS authorisation allows you to travel to Schengen borders, but entry is ultimately decided by border officials upon arrival.

 

When will ETIAS become mandatory?

ETIAS is expected to be operational in 2025. A grace period may follow, during which ETIAS registration will be optional before becoming mandatory.

 

Glossary

 

Term	Definition
ETIAS	European Travel Information and Authorisation System, an electronic travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers visiting the Schengen Area.
Schengen Area	A group of European countries that have abolished internal borders to allow passport-free movement.
Visa-Exempt Countries	Countries whose nationals are not required to obtain a visa for short stays in the Schengen Area but will need ETIAS authorisation.
Biometric Passport	A passport with an embedded microchip containing biometric information such as a facial image and personal details.
90/180 Rule	A rule allowing visitors to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa.
Visa Waiver	An authorisation allowing travellers from eligible countries to enter certain territories without a visa for short stays.
Europol	The European Union’s law enforcement agency, responsible for supporting member states in combating international crime and terrorism.
Interpol	An international organisation facilitating worldwide police cooperation and crime control.
Grace Period	A transitional phase during which ETIAS may be optional before becoming a mandatory travel requirement.
Travel Authorisation	Official approval required for entry into a country or region, obtained before travelling.
Application Fee	The cost of submitting an ETIAS application, currently set at €7 for eligible travellers aged 18–70.
Appeal	The process of challenging a decision, such as the denial of an ETIAS application.
Border Officials	Authorities responsible for checking travel documents and determining entry eligibility at Schengen borders.