ETIAS for UK travellers: What you need to know about Europe’s new entry system

ETIAS was previously expected to launch in the last quarter of 2026, but the system is not yet operating and applications are not open. A new start date has not been confirmed.

If you’re planning a European holiday, you don’t need to apply for ETIAS yet. Once it launches, it will become an extra step for many UK travellers visiting Europe.

New entry rules can feel confusing, especially when the details keep changing. This guide explains what ETIAS is, who will need it and how applications will work – including what you need to know if you’re travelling with a medical condition.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. Once introduced, it will be required for most British citizens travelling without a visa to 30 participating European countries for short stays. Some travellers will be exempt, including those holding certain qualifying residence documents.

In simple terms, ETIAS is an electronic travel authorisation, similar to the ESTA system used when travelling to the United States. It allows European authorities to carry out screening before you travel. You will still go through border checks when you arrive, and ETIAS approval will not guarantee entry.

ETIAS is not a visa. It does not replace your passport, and it does not guarantee entry. Instead, it is a pre-travel screening system designed to improve safety, strengthen border security, and streamline entry for visa-exempt travellers.

Key facts about ETIAS

• Cost: €20 for adults aged 18 to 70. It is free for travellers under 18 and over 70. The fee will apply once ETIAS becomes operational
• Validity: Valid for three years from approval, or until your passport expires (whichever comes first)
• Multiple entries: You can use a valid ETIAS for repeat visits, while keeping within the permitted stay limits. For most UK holidaymakers, the Schengen limit is 90 days in any 180-day period. Time spent in Cyprus is calculated separately
• New passport: If you replace your passport, you will need a new ETIAS authorisation
• Processing time: Most applications are expected to be processed within minutes, or within 96 hours. Additional checks can add up to a further 30 days
• Application method: Through the official ETIAS website or mobile app once applications open

Which countries require ETIAS?

ETIAS will be required for travel to 30 European countries that are part of the Schengen Area or are otherwise participating in ETIAS.

• Western and Central Europe, including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland.
• Northern Europe, including Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Sweden.
• Southern Europe, including Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain.
• Eastern and Southeastern Europe, including Croatia, Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus.

Ireland is not participating in ETIAS.

When will ETIAS start?

ETIAS has faced several delays and was previously expected to launch in the last quarter of 2026. Reports suggest a possible launch in 2027, but a replacement start date has not been confirmed in the current official guidance. 

These delays reflect the scale and complexity of introducing a new Europe-wide digital border system and are intended to ensure the process works smoothly for travellers once it goes live.

What we know about the timeline

• Current status: ETIAS is not operating, and applications are not being accepted
• Expected launch date: A confirmed start date is still awaited. The European Union says it will announce the date several months before launch
• Grace period: The published arrangements include a transitional period of at least six months, followed by a grace period of at least six months. Different requirements apply during each phase
• Official updates: The European Union says it will announce the start date several months before launch

For now, there is no ETIAS application to complete or fee to pay. Continue checking the existing entry requirements for your destination, and look out for official announcements before travelling.

We will keep this guide updated and share confirmed information as soon as the official ETIAS launch date is announced.

How to apply for ETIAS: Step-by-step guide

You cannot apply for ETIAS yet. Once applications open, you will be able to complete the form through the official ETIAS website or mobile app. Have your passport, contact details and travel information ready before you start.

Before you apply

Before starting your application, make sure you have everything you need to hand. You will need:

• A valid UK passport that remains valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date
• An email address you can access easily
• A debit or credit card to pay the application fee

Information you will be asked to provide includes:

• Personal details, including your full name, date of birth, and nationality
• Passport details
• Contact information
• Your travel plans, including your first country of entry
• Your current occupation and answers to questions about certain criminal convictions and past travel to conflict zones

You will not be asked to provide health information or vaccination details.

Application process

1. Visit the official ETIAS website once the system launches
2. Complete the online application form with your personal and travel details
3. Answer the security and background questions honestly and accurately
4. Pay the €20 application fee, unless you qualify for an exemption
5. Receive an email confirming submission, followed by another email explaining the outcome.
6. If approved, check that your authorisation details match your passport and keep your application number for future reference

Important application tips

Once applications open, the EU recommends obtaining ETIAS before buying tickets or booking accommodation.

Make sure all the details you enter match your passport exactly, including spelling and passport numbers. Keep your ETIAS authorisation details safe, and check that your authorisation is still valid before each trip so you can travel with confidence.

ETIAS for travellers with medical conditions

According to the European Union’s guidance, the ETIAS application will not ask you to provide information about your health or vaccination status. You will not need to list your pre-existing medical conditions on the application.

When arranging Travel Insurance, you should still answer your insurer’s medical screening questions accurately and check which conditions your policy covers.

Important reminders for travellers

• ETIAS does not cover medical treatment or provide financial protection abroad.
• An approved ETIAS does not guarantee entry; you must still meet the destination’s entry requirements.
• Answer your Travel Insurance provider’s medical screening questions accurately and check which conditions are covered.
• Carry any relevant medical documents and keep your insurer’s emergency assistance details accessible.

ETIAS and Travel Insurance serve different purposes. ETIAS is a travel authorisation, while suitable Travel Insurance can help with eligible medical emergencies and other insured costs.

Your ETIAS preparation checklist

To help you stay organised and avoid last-minute stress, here is a simple timeline to prepare for ETIAS.

Before applications open

• Check the passport and entry requirements for your destination
• For Schengen trips, check that your passport was issued less than 10 years before your arrival date and expires at least three months after you plan to leave the Schengen area
• Renew your passport early if needed, checking the latest processing times on GOV.UK
• Bookmark the official ETIAS website for launch announcements
• Review your Travel Insurance for your destinations, activities and medical needs

Once applications open

• Check whether you need ETIAS or qualify for an exemption
• Apply in good time using the passport you intend to travel with
• Check your authorisation details carefully and save your application number
• Allow extra time in case further information is requested

Before each trip

• Check the entry requirements for every country you will visit
• Confirm that your ETIAS is valid, if required, and linked to your current passport
• Check that your planned stay is within the permitted limits
• Make sure your Travel Insurance covers the trip

ETIAS vs Travel Insurance: Understanding the difference

It is important to understand that ETIAS is not a replacement for Travel Insurance. Many travellers assume that new entry systems offer protection, but this is not the case.

What ETIAS provides

• A travel authorisation for eligible travellers visiting participating European countries
• Pre-travel border security screening
• Identity verification

What ETIAS does not provide

• Cover for medical emergencies abroad
• Trip cancellation or curtailment protection
• Lost or stolen luggage support
• Repatriation costs
• 24/7 emergency assistance

Why you will still need Travel Insurance

ETIAS is simply an entry requirement, much like holding a valid passport. It offers no financial or practical support if something goes wrong during your trip.

For example, ETIAS will not cover hospital treatment abroad, compensate you if you need to cancel due to a change in your health, or support the cost of emergency repatriation. These costs can be significant, particularly if you are living with a medical condition.

What ETIAS means for your travel plans

For now, you do not need to apply for ETIAS. Applications are not open, and a confirmed start date is still awaited.

Once introduced, ETIAS will become an extra step for many UK travellers visiting participating European countries. The application will not ask for health information, but you should still answer your Travel Insurance provider’s medical screening questions accurately.

Keep checking official updates, review your destination’s entry requirements and apply in good time once applications open. Remember that ETIAS approval will not guarantee entry or replace suitable Travel Insurance.