Applying For ETIAS Travel Requirement For Europe

Introduction

Planning to travel to Europe this summer? 

Learn about the ETIAS travel requirement and how it can impact your travel plans. Having a US passport allows visa-free travel to many European countries. However, now you must apply for travel authorization from the ETIAS before visiting. With this short guide, learn what the ETIAS travel requirement is and how you can easily apply for it. 

What is the ETIAS Travel Requirement?

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is a travel authorization needed for passport holders of 59 countries (including the US) who enjoy visa-free access to many European countries. This electronic process is linked to your passport and designed to increase security and border control. Remember, ETIAS is a travel authorization, not a visa. 

List of Countries Requiring ETIAS Authorization

An ETIAS authorization is required to enter the Schengen area countries and Cyprus. If you are a citizen of one of the 59 countries, and you plan to enter either of these countries, you would need ETIAS authorization:

AustriaBelgiumBulgariaCroatiaCyprus 
Czech RepublicDenmarkEstoniaFinlandFrance
GermanyGreeceHungaryIceland Italy
LatviaLiechtenstein LithuaniaLuxembourgMalta
NetherlandsNorwayPolandPortugalRomania
SlovakiaSloveniaSpainSwedenSwitzerland

How to Apply for ETIAS? 

Confidently apply for your ETIAS travel authorization by referring to this easy-to-follow step-by-step application process

Step 1: Determine your Eligibility

If you are a US citizen and plan to travel to any of the countries mentioned above, you may have to file for ETIAS. Typically, it is best to apply for ETIAS before booking your hotels and flights.  

Step 2: Collect and Add Information 

The application process generally takes around 20 minutes. However, your application may take up to 30 days to be accepted. In your application, you have to provide your personal information such as:

  • Full Name
  • Date and Country of Birth
  • Sex
  • Home address and contact details
  • Passport and travel document details
  • Name of the country you first plan to enter and the address of your destination
  • Disclosure details about your health, criminal history, and previous immigration issues
  • Representative and beneficiary details if you are filing on behalf of someone else

If you are travelling with your family or in a large group, each member must apply for ETIAS individually, and you cannot submit a group application. 

Step 3: Having an Updated Passport

At the time of applying, you need to make sure that your passport is valid, contains a machine-readable section, and has an electronic passport sign or chip. 

Step 4: Pay the Fee

That’s it! Your process is complete. Just submit the form and pay the fee. You will most likely receive your confirmed ETIAS details within the next few minutes. Your ETIAS travel authorization is valid for 3 years or until your passport/travel document expires, whichever comes first. 

What is the Cost of Applying for ETIAS? 

You must pay an application fee of 7 euros (roughly $8) to apply for ETIAS travel authorization. You are exempt from paying the application fee if you are under 18 or above 70. 

Additionally, you do not have to pay the fee if you are a family member of an EU citizen or a non-EU national with the right to move freely throughout the EU.   

When will ETIAS Start Operations? 

The ETIAS was initially supposed to start in 2024. However, its operation has been postponed to the last quarter of 2026 due to delays. Before making travel plans, consult an expert immigration attorney to avoid complications in your dream holiday or business plans. 

Conclusion 

Similar to how US citizens and green card holders traveling to Canada require specific documents, the ETIAS mandates advance travel authorization before you can enter Europe. Before traveling to Europe, you must apply for ETIAS to ensure a hassle-free experience at the border. By following this detailed guide, you can make your application process easy. So, just pay the 7 euros fee, submit your documents, and get ETIAS approval for the next three years. 

How FileRight Can Help You? 

FileRight is one of the leading immigration software companies in the US, committed to making the immigration process easier, affordable, and accessible. FileRight regularly publishes blogs on various topics related to immigration and citizenship, so that our clients can be informed and make the best decisions for their immigration needs.

If you have any questions or queries, you can reach out to our immigration chatbot, Sarah. If you want any assistance in your ETIAS process, you can book a consultation with our expert attorneys

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