You can apply for ETIAS online on the official website or through the ETIAS app. It costs 7 euros, but some people don't have to pay. You can find out more about the application and who doesn't need to pay below. Most of the time, it only takes a few minutes to process.
How long to wait for ETIAS approval?
Sometimes, it might take up to four days to get a decision on your application. If the office needs more information or documents from you, or if they ask you to come to an interview, it could take up to 14 days or even 30 days. That's why it's a good idea to apply for ETIAS early before your trip.
When is better to apply for ETIAS?
Travelers planning to visit the European Union are encouraged to apply for the ETIAS travel authorization at least two months prior to their intended departure. With the recent recovery in tourism and the substantial increase in accommodation offerings across the EU, there has been a significant rise in the number of visitors. In 2022, the EU boasted approximately 28.9 million bed places in over 620,000 tourist accommodations, with a notable increase in capacity compared to previous years. Italy and France offer a substantial portion of these accommodations, highlighting the region's popularity as a travel destination.
The introduction of ETIAS is expected to see a high volume of applications. To ensure a smooth and timely process, and to mitigate the risk of delays due to system overload, early application is recommended. Applying two months in advance will allow for any additional processing time that may be required during the initial phase post-launch of ETIAS. This approach is aimed at providing travelers with peace of mind, securing their travel authorization well ahead of their trip.
Amount of EU visitors from UK
Even though there was a yearly rise, the number of trips from the UK to European nations in 2022 was still not as high as before the pandemic, reaching slightly over 56 million. In the same year, the count of international visits from Europe to the UK also went up significantly, yet it did not reach the levels seen before the pandemic.
ETIAS application fee and payment exemptions
To pay the 7EUR fee for the ETIAS, you'll need a payment card. There are several online payment methods available for your convenience.
The fee is waived for applicants under the age of 18 or over the age of 70. Additionally, family members of EU citizens, as well as those of non-EU nationals who are entitled to move freely within the EU, are not required to pay this fee.
The application fee is non-refundable.
When granted ETIAS authorization expires?
Your ETIAS travel authorization will last for three years or until your travel document, such as a passport, expires if that happens first.
This authorization is for short visits. With a valid ETIAS, you can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period in the countries that require ETIAS.
You need to have a valid ETIAS for the whole time you are visiting. You're free to leave and return as often as you like, but remember to keep within the 90-day limit.
You'll be alerted by email when your ETIAS travel authorization is close to expiring. You can apply for a new one 120 days before your current authorization ends.
Remember, an ETIAS travel authorization stays valid until the expiration date, no matter how old the person it was issued to is.
After you applied for ETIAS
After submitting your ETIAS application, you'll get an email confirmation that includes a unique ETIAS application number. It's important to keep this number safe for future use.
You will be notified by email about the decision once your application is processed.
Please check that all the details on your ETIAS travel authorization, like your name and passport number, are correct. Any errors could mean you're not allowed to enter.
If your application isn't approved, you'll receive an email explaining why. This email will also tell you how to challenge the decision, which authority to contact, and the time frame you have to make an appeal.