Starting in 2025, travelers from more than 60 countries which are currently visa-exempt (including the USA) will need to obtain DIGITAL approval before arriving in the EU (similar to a system the US has had in place since 2009). ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) visas are not physical documents, but are electronically linked to a traveler's passport and approval is intended only for short term stays, up to 90 days in any 180 day period.
Here's the list of the 30 countries now requiring prior approval:
Austria | Czech Republic | Germany | Latvia | Netherlands | Slovakia |
Belgium | Denmark | Greece | Liechtenstein | Norway | Slovenia |
Bulgaria | Estonia | Hungary | Lithuania | Poland | Spain |
Croatia | Finland | Iceland | Luxembourg | Portugal | Sweden |
Cyprus | France | Italy | Malta | Romania | Switzerland |
When the ETIAS requirement comes into force (currently expected in the spring of 2025), the E.U. will provide applications through an official website and mobile app. Parents and legal guardians can apply on behalf of their minors.
ETIAS approval is valid for three years or until the passport it is registered to expires, whichever comes first. The ETIAS processing fee is set at 7 euros (free for applicants under the age of 18 or over the age of 70).
Plan ahead! Wile ETIAS approval should come within minutes for most applicants, it can take up to 30 days. The government suggests that travelers apply well in advance of any trip, and strongly advises travelers to receive their ETIAS approval even before purchasing flights or booking hotel stays.
And, finally, an ETIAS visa does not guaranty entry into a country -- you still need to get approved at the border, just as you do now.
Don't say you weren't warned.
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