UK Joins Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Germany, Romania and Other European Countries in Enforcing New ETIAS System For Easy Travel Entry In 2026: What This Means For Your European Trip

Published on December 27, 2025

UK, along with Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Germany, Romania, and other European countries, will enforce the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) starting in 2026 to simplify travel entry. This new system is designed to streamline the process for travelers from visa-exempt countries, like the UK, by requiring them to obtain an online travel authorization before entering the Schengen Area. ETIAS will replace the traditional visa process, allowing for quicker, more efficient entry while ensuring enhanced security. Here’s what this means for your European trip and why it’s important to stay informed about these upcoming changes.

For those planning to travel to Europe, there are some significant changes coming in 2026 that will affect many holidaymakers. These new regulations focus on travel authorizations and border control systems for visitors from visa-exempt countries.

If you’re traveling to popular European destinations like Spain, France, Greece, Portugal, or Italy, you should familiarize yourself with the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). This new system will require travelers from the UK and other non-EU countries to apply for an entry authorization before they can enter any of the 30 European countries covered by the system.

What is ETIAS?

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is not a visa but a mandatory travel authorization for nationals from countries that are currently visa-exempt for short stays in Europe. ETIAS has been introduced to enhance security and streamline the entry process for travelers.

The ETIAS system operates similarly to the U.S. ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), which was implemented to facilitate travel while ensuring that passengers meet specific security requirements before entering the country. Likewise, the European Union’s new system will ensure travelers from visa-exempt nations are vetted before reaching their destinations.

ETIAS will apply to 30 European countries, and it will be required for short stays, typically up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This move is part of broader border management reforms aimed at enhancing security, preventing illegal immigration, and ensuring easier access for tourists while maintaining control over who enters the Schengen Area.

Countries Affected by ETIAS

Starting in 2026, the ETIAS travel authorization will be mandatory for nationals of several countries, including the UK, who are planning to visit any of the 30 participating countries. The full list of countries includes:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

This new authorization requirement applies to all travelers, including business and leisure visitors, and is expected to streamline entry procedures for those coming to Europe for tourism or short-term work.

Important Details About ETIAS

1. It’s Not a Visa

Many travelers may confuse the ETIAS with a visa, but it’s important to note that an ETIAS is not a visa. It’s a travel authorization. Similar to the U.S. ESTA, it allows entry into the Schengen Area without a visa for stays up to 90 days. It will be valid for three years, or until the expiration of your passport, whichever comes first.

2. Duration of Stay

With an ETIAS, travelers can enter and exit as many times as needed within the three-year validity period. However, each stay cannot exceed 90 days within a 180-day window. This rule is particularly important for frequent travelers.

3. Application Process

Applying for an ETIAS will be simple. Travelers can apply online through the official ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile app. The application process is expected to be user-friendly and efficient.

4. Application Timeframe

Most ETIAS applications are expected to be processed in a matter of minutes. However, in some cases, applications could take up to four days to process, or even up to 30 days if additional documentation or an interview is required. To avoid any travel disruptions, it’s recommended to apply for your ETIAS well in advance of your planned journey.

5. Cost of ETIAS

The fee for obtaining an ETIAS is 20 Euros. However, the fee will be waived for individuals under 18 years old or those over 70 years old. Additionally, family members of EU citizens or non-EU nationals with free movement rights within the European Union will not have to pay the fee.

6. Valid Passport Required

To apply for an ETIAS, travelers will need a valid passport. The passport must not be due to expire within three months of the intended travel date. This ensures that travelers have enough time to enter and exit the Schengen Area without encountering issues related to passport expiration.

7. Family Members Must Apply Separately

The ETIAS is a personal travel authorization, and travelers cannot include family members in their application. Each family member will need to submit a separate application and obtain their own ETIAS, even if they are traveling together.

Key Differences Between ETIAS and EES

Although ETIAS will be implemented in 2026, it is important to note that there is another system already in place called the Entry/Exit System (EES). This system was introduced in October 2025, but it is being rolled out gradually across the Schengen Area. The EES is a border control system that digitizes the entry and exit process for travelers coming to Europe for short stays.

Unlike ETIAS, which serves as a pre-authorization for travel, the Entry/Exit System operates at border control. When entering a Schengen country, travelers will have their passports scanned and may need to provide biometric data (such as fingerprints and facial scans). The EES is designed to replace manual passport stamping, making the border entry process more efficient and automated.

Full Implementation of EES Expected by 2026

While some European countries have already implemented the Entry/Exit System (EES), full implementation is expected by April 2026. The system will be fully operational by the time ETIAS begins, so travelers should be prepared for both systems to be in place by the end of 2026.

Why ETIAS Is Important

The introduction of ETIAS is part of the European Union’s ongoing efforts to enhance security while maintaining the region’s reputation as an attractive destination for tourists and business travelers. The system will ensure that travelers entering the EU are thoroughly vetted, improving security without hindering tourism and trade.

By requiring travelers from non-EU countries to apply for travel authorization before they arrive, ETIAS aims to help identify potential risks and streamline the border control process. This will also make the experience smoother for travelers, who will know in advance whether they meet the entry requirements.

How ETIAS Will Affect Travelers

The introduction of ETIAS is likely to be a significant shift for travelers to Europe. While it introduces a new process for entry, it also enhances security and simplifies the travel experience. The move is expected to reduce delays at border control and improve the flow of tourists into the Schengen Area.

For travelers planning a trip to Europe in 2026 or beyond, it is essential to ensure that their travel documents are up-to-date and to apply for their ETIAS well in advance. By doing so, visitors will ensure that their travels are smooth and hassle-free as they explore Europe’s most popular destinations.

UK, along with Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Portugal, Germany, Romania, and other European countries, will introduce the ETIAS system in 2026 to streamline entry for travelers from visa-exempt nations. This change aims to simplify travel while enhancing security by requiring online travel authorization before visiting the Schengen Area.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is set to launch in 2026, bringing important changes to travel for UK nationals and others from visa-exempt countries. This new system will make it easier for travelers to visit 30 European countries, with streamlined security processes that enhance safety without compromising ease of travel. For those planning to visit Europe, staying informed about these changes and preparing in advance is essential for smooth, stress-free trips.