Everything About the New Electronic Permit for Europe (2023)

Last Updated: October 2022

The European Electronic Travel Authorisation has been discussed for years, however, there is now a date of release: November 2023. This is everything you need to know about this new permit or visa waiver, for people that do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Area.

What is the ETIAS?

The ETIAS is the Electronic Travel Information and Authorisation Permit to enter countries in the Schengen Area and some others around. Travelers from the 50 required countries need to obtain this authorisation if they travel by land, air or sea.

Important note: the ETIAS is not a visa, but an electronic permit. 

When do I need to apply for the European ETA?

From November 2023, you will need to apply for the European ETIAS before you board your flight to the countries listed. It is recommended that you apply at least 30 days before your trip to avoid any issues, but the validation can also take just a few minutes. 

It is actually expected that 95% of applicants will receive their valid European ETIAS a few minutes after filling in their information. 

You need to obtain the permit if you are traveling for business or as a tourist. If you intend to work, live or study in the selected countries, you need to apply for a long-term visa. 

How can I apply for the European ETIAS?

From November 2023, you will be able to apply online from your laptop or phone app in only 10 minutes. 

What documents do I need to apply for the European ETIAS?

1. Valid passport
2. Valid email address
3. Valid debit or credit card for paying the necessary fees
4. Answer a series of questions about health, criminal background, previous trips to Europe, trips to risk international areas, and family. 

How much is the European ETIAS?

Authorities have said that the new electronic permit will cost only 7EUR. 

How long is the European ETIAS valid for?

This authorisation will be valid for 3 years, and it will be multi-entry for 90 days in a period of 180 days. 

For which countries do I need to get the ETIAS?

Besides all the countries from the Schengen area, also Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Romania since they are expected to join the EU soon. 

Which countries need a travel authorization for Europe?

1. Albania
2. Antigua and Barbuda
3. Argentina
4. Australia
5. Bahamas
6. Barbados
7. Bosnia and Herzegovina
8. Brazil
9. Brunei
10. Canada
11. Chile
12. Colombia
13. Costa Rica
14. Dominica
15. El Salvador
16. Georgia
17. Grenada
18. Guatemala
19. Honduras
20. Hong Kong
21. Israel
22. Japan
23. Kiribati
24. Macao
25. North Macedonia
26. Malaysia
27. Marshall Islands
28. Mauritius
29. Mexico
30. Micronesia
31. Moldova
32. Montenegro
33. New Zealand
34. Nicaragua
35. Palau
36. Panama
37. Paraguay
38. Peru
39. Saint Kitts and Nevis
40. Saint Lucia
41. Saint Vincent
42. Samoa
43. Serbia
44. Seychelles
45. Singapore
46. Solomon Islands
47. South Korea
48. Taiwan
49. Timor Leste
50. Tonga
51. Trinidad and Tobago
52. Tuvalu
53. Ukraine
54. United Arab Emirates
55. United Kingdom
56. United States of America
57. Uruguay
58. Vanuatu
59. Venezuela

Do Americans and Canadians need a visa for Europe?

From November 2023, Americans will be required to fill in the ETIAS, a travel information and authorisation permit to enter Europe. 

Why does Europe have a new visa?

The ETIAS, not a visa but a travel authorisation, was originally approved in 2016 with the purpose of improving security and avoiding threats in the area for residents and visitors alike. It also has the goal to prevent any possible epidemics. 

Which background check will be performed to get the new European ETIAS?

Several databases will be checked including the Schengen Information System (SIS), Europol data, the Interpol SLTD and TDAWN, etc.

You can find more information in the official memo here, but we will keep updating this page as soon as new information keeps coming out.