Anticipated Timeframe for Enacting ETIAS Visa Waiver for Non-EU Travelers within Europe
The European Union is preparing to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a new visa waiver program for travellers entering the Schengen Area. The expected timeline for the implementation of ETIAS is closely linked to the rollout of the Entry/Exit System (EES).
The EES, a system designed to track the entry and exit of travellers, is set to become operational in October 2025. After its implementation, the EU is expected to introduce ETIAS, although the exact start date is yet to be confirmed. Current estimates suggest that ETIAS may launch in the last quarter of 2026, between October and December.
Once operational, ETIAS will serve as a crucial tool for verifying if a third-country national meets the entry requirements before travelling to the Schengen Area. The system will process applications within minutes, but travellers are advised to apply at least 72 hours in advance.
Non-EU travellers, including British, American, Canadian, and Australian citizens, will not need to worry about ETIAS before spring 2027. Frequent travellers will not need to complete a new application every time, but the authorisation must be renewed every three years.
The cost of ETIAS will be €7, significantly cheaper than the potential €16 for the UK's ETA. Applications can be made via an app and on the official ETIAS website (
To avoid potential scams, EU authorities caution against using unofficial websites for ETIAS applications. EU-LISA, the agency responsible for the technology behind ETIAS, is also working on a search engine optimization strategy to make the ETIAS website easily findable in online searches.
For the first six months after ETIAS becomes mandatory, there will be a transition period where travellers are encouraged to apply, but it will not be strictly enforced. After this period, ETIAS approval will be required for eligible travellers to enter the Schengen Area.
A public information campaign for ETIAS will be launched six months before its operation, in 19 languages, including 13 non-EU languages. The campaign aims to ensure that all travellers are well-informed about the new system and its requirements.
Once issued, the ETIAS authorisation lasts for three years, longer than the UK's ETA (two years). It is currently not possible to apply for ETIAS, and travellers are advised to wait for further announcements regarding the official start date.
The phased rollout of the EES and the anticipated launch of ETIAS are significant steps towards enhancing border security and facilitating travel within the Schengen Area. As more details about ETIAS become available, travellers are encouraged to stay informed and prepare accordingly.
The European Union is expected to introduce the ETIAS system, a tool for verifying entry requirements of travellers, after the implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) in October 2025.applications for ETIAS can be made via an app and on the official ETIAS website, with the cost of €7, and will last for three years.
Once issued, the ETIAS authorisation lasts for three years, longer than the UK's ETA (two years), and is currently not possible to apply. A public information campaign for ETIAS will be launched six months before its operation, in 19 languages, including 13 non-EU languages, to ensure all travellers are well-informed about the new system and its requirements.
