New ETIAS Requirements for European Travel Revealed

We make it our business to keep apprised of trends in international travel, especially where it could impact our ability to execute events or affect our clients' ability to attend. New travel guidelines have been revealed for people visiting the European Union next year, and we have been monitoring the situation closely.  

Of particular interest is a new application mandated by the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) that travelers will need to apply for online before they can travel to the European Union. Since this could potentially add a wrinkle to travel plans in the future, we've put together a brief Q&A to answer your questions about this new application in one convenient place.  

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Q: What is the ETIAS application?  

‍ A: The ETIAS is a mandatory application for travelers to the European Union that must be processed online, requiring a small fee. This authorization allows travelers from outside the E.U. to enter its member countries.  

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Q: When does it go into effect?  

A: The ETIAS website lists that it will affect travel starting in 2024. No specific date has been set for this change to officially go into effect, but it could potentially affect any travel to European countries in 2024 and beyond.

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Q: How much does it cost?  

A: The application is expected to cost €7 EUR, or approximately $8 USD.

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Q: How long does the application last?

A: The application is good for three years, but once it is used, the applicant will be able to visit the E.U. for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

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Q: Who does this application apply to?  

A:  Residents belonging to "visa-exempt" countries must have their ETIAS application approved before travel to the E.U. is permitted. A short list of countries that this applies to includes: the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, and Mexico. You can find a full list of visa-exempt countries here.

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Q: Where do I go to apply?  

A:  Applications are expected to be processed through the ETIAS website, though no applications are being collected at this time. When the official application portal goes live, we will post the precise link where you can apply online.

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Q: Can I include family members on my ETIAS application?

A:  No. Each person must acquire their own separate application approval. You can, however, file an ETIAS application on behalf of someone else, such as a dependant or family member. You can learn more about applying on behalf of others here.

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Q: How will I know if I'm approved?

A: The process is online, so you will be notified via email that your application has been submitted and received. A second email will follow to let you know the decision on your application.

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Q: How long will this process take?  

A:  Most applications will likely be decided upon within minutes of your application, but the process can take up to 96 hours, or four full days. Because the volume of applications could affect approval times, and some applicants may need to submit additional information, it's recommended that you submit your application at least 30 days before your intended travel date, or as soon as you know you are traveling to the European Union.

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If you have any further questions about this new procedure and how it might affect your future meetings, events, or travel plans, feel free to check the ETIAS website or if you have specific questions related to a meeting, please contact us directly. We'll be following this situation closely and are happy to help you effectively plan for when the ETIAS goes into effect. Our team of meeting & event experts will be prepared to ensure your attendee experience is as always, a positive one!

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