Currently, Americans need only a legitimate passport to visit European Union (EU) countries, but that will soon change. Beginning early next year, citizens of approximately 60 nations, including the United States and Canada, will require a new type of travel authorization to access the European Union. Here is what you should know:
Will Americans traveling to Europe require a visa?
Beginning in early 2024, U.S. citizens will be required to register for and obtain travel authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in order to visit one of the 30 EU member states.
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It will be a new component of the travel and immigration procedures, but it is not technically a visa. There will be a fee, but the procedure will be online and much quicker than obtaining a visa.
How to Obtain an ETIAS Travel Permit
As of this writing, the ETIAS application process has not yet begun, and the EU has not yet announced the program’s official launch date. However, the following is known:
The essentials
ETIAS travel authorization is for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. The same duration as granted to current U.S. passport holders
It is not a guarantee of admission. A border patrol agent will request to see your passport and other identifying documents upon entry and will verify that you fulfill the country’s entry requirements.
ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever occurs first (e.g., if your passport is valid for two years, so is your ETIAS).
Cost of Application
It costs €7 (approximately $8) for those aged 18 to 70.
There is no charge for those under 17 and those 71 and older.
Family members of EU citizens also travel for free.
Application procedure
Applicants submit a brief online form containing their contact and biographical information, passport information, travel arrangements, travel history, and security information.
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The majority of applications are processed within minutes, while a few may take up to four days.
If your application is denied, you will receive an email detailing the decision’s rationale and the appeals process.
For additional details, please consult the ETIAS website.
