Visiting Europe Soon? A New Pre-Travel Check Is About to Start
The EU's ETIAS travel authorisation is due to begin operating in the last quarter of 2026 for visitors from visa-exempt countries. It costs €20, applicants under 18 or over 70 pay nothing, and a grace period is expected before it becomes mandatory. What travellers need to know.
By the UISC BD Editorial Desk · United Information Service Center · Published 13 September 2026 · 4-minute read
This article is general travel information. Always confirm current requirements on the official EU website before you travel.
"Travel visa" is among the top travel searches on Google, and one change affects millions of people who currently visit Europe without a visa.
What ETIAS Is
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is an online pre-travel authorisation for people from countries that do not need a visa to visit participating European countries for short stays. It is not a visa: it is a quick online check linked to your passport before you travel.
When It Starts
- ETIAS is expected to begin operating in the fourth quarter of 2026 (October to December).
- The EU has committed to giving at least six months' notice of the exact start date.
- A transitional grace period is expected after launch, with ETIAS reported to become mandatory for boarding and entry around April 2027.
What It Costs
- €20 per application — revised up from an earlier estimate of €7.
- Applicants under 18 or over 70 pay no fee.
How to Apply When It Opens
- Use only the official EU website or app.
- Have your passport ready — the authorisation is linked to it.
- Answer the questions accurately; mistakes can cause delays.
- Apply well before you travel, in case extra checks are needed.
Beware of Unofficial Sites
Travel authorisation schemes attract websites that look official and charge large "service fees" for simply filling in the same form. Check the web address carefully and never pay more than the official fee.
Practical Tips
- Check your passport's expiry date. A new passport generally means a new authorisation.
- Watch airline communications as the start date approaches.
- Keep travel insurance in mind — see what it costs in 2026.
- Plan how you will pay abroad — see travel money cards explained.
Travelling further afield? Japan has introduced new tourist taxes — see our Japan travel update.
Related reading
- Travel Money Cards Explained: Multi-Currency Cards vs Credit Cards vs Cash
- How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost in 2026? Averages and What You Get
- Japan Tourism Hits Records as Departure Tax Triples to ¥3,000
- MiCA Deadline Passed: About 80% of EU Crypto Firms Did Not Get a Licence
Sources
- "ETIAS," European Union official travel website — travel-europe.europa.eu
- "ETIAS launch date: latest updates and timeline (2026)," Schengen Traveler — schengentraveler.com
- "ETIAS 2026: Q4 launch confirmed, €20 fee, grace period," Travel Tourister — traveltourister.com
- "ETIAS 2026: current status and what it means for your trip," Onward Itinerary — onwarditinerary.com
