us passport european travel

New requirements for Americans traveling to Europe postponed until 2025

Visitors who now travel visa-free will need to get approval prior to departure.

Americans eyed upcoming travel to European destinations slightly differently due to news of a requirement that was set to start in 2024 for U.S. passport holders. But now, EU officials have postponed the European Travel Information and Authorisation System ( ETIAS ) launch until spring of 2025.

SchengenVisaInfo.com, a website dedicated to the world's largest visa-free zone where 27 European countries abolished their internal borders known as the Schengen Area, first reported that an EU official confirmed ETIAS won't go live until May 2025, "due to continued delays with the introduction of the related Entry-Exit System (EES), which needs to be operational before ETIAS can be implemented."

An official for the European Union did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment.

What to know about ETIAS for US travelers

If you previously traveled to Europe without a visa, you will now need to apply for authorization through the ETIAS , before visiting.

Today, American travelers have visa-free access to 184 global destinations, according to the Henley Passport Index . And while the U.S. passport is currently ranked eighth-most powerful passport to own, that could be set to shift when the European Union adds its new documentation requirements for U.S. visitors.

The application form, which will be available on the official ETIAS website as well as a mobile application, has a fee of 7 euros or $7.79 U.S. dollars. All communication is done by email.

Once you are approved for travel, the authorization entitles visitors to stay in European countries that require ETIAS for up to 90 days within any 180-day period and travelers must be in possession of a valid ETIAS during their entire stay.

MORE: New warning issued for rebooking air travel after delays, cancellations

According to ETIAS, most applications should be processed within minutes, but in case an application takes longer, decisions will be sent within four days or up to 14 days if the applicant is asked to provide additional documentation.

The European Union encourages travelers to apply for an ETIAS authorization "well in advance of your planned journey."

Trending Reader Picks

Top-ranked golfer Scottie Scheffler arrested

• May 18, 1:46 PM

Iran's President Raisi dead in helicopter crash

• May 20, 1:56 AM

Teen graduates with doctoral degree

• May 14, 12:07 PM

Confirmation of application submission will be sent on email with a unique number that is needed for future reference.

Upon receiving ETIAS travel authorization, travelers are to ensure that their name, passport number and other information is correct because any mistake will prevent them from crossing the border.

If an application is refused, the email will include the reasons for the decision along with information about how to appeal.

ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years, according to the EU, or until the travel document you used in your application expires, whichever comes first.

MORE: European heat wave breaking records with little relief in sight

The ETIAS authorization is linked to a person's travel document -- such as a U.S. passport -- and both documents will be needed to board a flight, bus or ship to enter any of the European countries that require ETIAS.

Similar to international border requirements with a passport, the ETIAS authorization doesn't guarantee automatic right of entry. "Border guards will verify that you meet the entry conditions" and anyone who does not meet the conditions "will be refused entry," according to the EU.

Click here to learn more about the process from the European Union.

An earlier version of this story was originally published on July 21, 2023.

Related Topics

Giuliani served with indictment at 80th birthday

• May 18, 3:26 PM

Diddy apologizes: 'I hit rock bottom'

• May 19, 3:39 PM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Wait, do you need a visa to go to Europe now? The new ETIAS requirements, explained

Emily Olson

St. Mark's basilica in Venice is one place U.S. passport holders may not be able to get to without approval under the new ETIAS requirements Andrea Pattaro/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

St. Mark's basilica in Venice is one place U.S. passport holders may not be able to get to without approval under the new ETIAS requirements

Already thinking about next summer's vacation plans? If Europe is on your short list, there could be one extra step to take before boarding that plane.

Starting in 2024, American passport holders traveling to 30 European countries will need authorization via the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

Though it may sound complicated, the ETIAS and the reasoning behind it are quite similar to existing travel requirements and reflect increasing fear of terrorism in the U.S., Europe and around the world.

Here's what you need to know.

What is ETIAS? Is it a visa?

While some media outlets are taking a cue from the European Union's travel site and calling this a visa, in truth, ETIAS is more like a travel authorization form.

Summer air travel could be expensive and chaotic. Here's how to avoid trouble

"It's definitely not a visa," said Dan Hamilton, a senior non-resident fellow for foreign policy at the Brookings Institution. "It's an electronic entry-point, an authorization for countries that are currently visa-free."

Even the European Commission has said as much (and in bold letters) , writing this is "not a visa" but rather an "automated IT system" in a press release on the discussions around it back in 2018.

Whatever you want to call it, the ETIAS form is not what you'd seek if you're trying to work or live in Europe, but rather what you'll need for short-term trips — up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Why is it being implemented?

These new requirements have been years in the making, stemming back to a rise in terrorism fears following 9/11. It's very similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization — or ESTA — program that the U.S. implemented in 2008 .

At the heart of ETIAS is an electronic database system to better track who's coming and going. According to the EU's latest report on terrorism data , EU law enforcement authorities arrested about 388 suspects for terror-related offenses in 2021, more than half of whom were accused of being associated with Jihadist groups based abroad.

The European Commission says ETIAS may have the added impact of cutting down on "irregular migration" (i.e. illegal immigration), but one thing the form is definitely not aimed to do is deter tourism in general.

'Revenge travel' is surging. Here's what you need to know

Crowded cities, inflated airfare and extreme heat disasters may all be making headlines this summer, but many of these European countries are still depending on tourism revenue to help them bounce back from pandemic slumps, Hamilton said.

And the pandemic is another one of the many reasons this new requirement has been delayed by decades — there was no need for ETIAS when countries closed their borders to all travel amid fears of spreading COVID-19.

"Another part of it is simply the pace of the way this parliament and European commission works," Hamilton explained in an interview with NPR. "They're ending their term and pushing through a lot of these directives because parliamentary elections happen next June."

"And getting 30 countries to agree on anything takes a long time," he added.

When does it take effect?

The European Union's website says the new authorization will start in 2024 but hasn't clarified a specific date. A press spokesperson for the union's travel arm did not respond to NPR's request for information.

And, similarly, a spokesperson for the State Department told NPR that the U.S. government website for international travel (travel.state.gov) would be updated "once the regulation goes into effect," but didn't specify when that would be.

"Frankly, I'd be surprised if this starts on time," Hamilton said. The rollout of ETIAS has already been delayed at least once.

But it couldn't hurt to plan ahead for any 2024 travel just to be safe.

Who needs to apply for ETIAS approval?

Basically, all passport holders from 60 countries who can currently travel to most European destinations without a visa — and that includes American passport holders — will now need to get ETIAS authorization for the same trip. That's about 1.4 billion people, by the European Union's estimation.

There are 30 European countries in total on the impacted destination list , including those in the "Schengen Area" — 27 European countries, many that are part of the European Union, that agreed to ease border restrictions to facilitate the movement of people within Europe.

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro

Those Schengen countries include top vacation spots like France, Italy and Spain.

The other three countries on the list are Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus, which are all trying to become a part of the Schengen Area soon.

You can check the full list of both impacted passport holders and affected European destinations here.

How can you apply for ETIAS approval (and does it cost money)?

The application isn't open yet, but the European Union says that when it is, all necessary forms can be filled out via a web portal or mobile phone application.

You'll be asked to share personal information such as your date of birth, parents' names and details about your current occupation and previous criminal convictions. You'll also need to share a passport that is not set to expire in less than three months.

Oh, and you'll have to pay a fee of 7 euros (about $8).

When is the right time to apply?

If you want to play it safe, apply well in advance of your trip — no later than a month out.

ETIAS says most applications "are processed within minutes" and decisions are delivered within four days. But that wait could take up to 14 days if you are requested to supply additional information and up to 30 days if you're invited to interview.

It's Been a Minute

Presenting 'life kit': making the most of travel and your time off.

Those denied an application can appeal, but that process could be even lengthier.

The European Union says ETIAS approval will stay valid for three years or until the passport you used in your application expires.

Naturally, you'll also need to follow the ETIAS rules to stay in good standing.

Those with ETIAS approval can stay in the European countries on the list for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. So you can leave and come back, but you can't stay in the confines of the countries on the list for 91 days or more non-stop.

Welcome page

System for registering non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay in 29 European countries (starting in the second half of 2024)

Travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to enter 30 European countries (starting in the first half of 2025)

Share this page

Americans Will Need a ‘Visa’ to Visit Europe in 2024—Here's What to Know

By Jessica Poitevien

United States passport holders have long traveled throughout most of the world without having to worry about visa applications: American travelers currently have visa-free access to 184 destinations worldwide, according to this year’s Henley Passport Index , which ranked the U.S. passport as the eighth most powerful in the world . But that’s set to change next year, as the European Union prepares new travel document requirements for American tourists.

The new regulations are called the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). When the system launches in early 2024, it will require all visitors who currently travel to Europe visa-free, such as citizens from the US, Canada , Australia, and New Zealand, to apply for travel authorization and receive approval prior to their departure.

ETIAS is not a visa in the traditional sense; it only requires a quick online application, with approval delivered via email. In order to receive authorization, visitors must fill out an online form providing details about their basic biographical information, travel plans and travel history, as well as other security questions.

Most applicants will be granted travel authorization within an hour, but if further checks are required, the process could take up to 96 hours. The application costs €7 ( about $8) and is required for all travelers regardless of their age. Once approved, this authorization is valid for multiple entries over the course of three years, or until the traveler’s passport expires.

Although many Americans were apprehensive about waiting on another travel document when the program was first announced, as more details about ETIAS become available, many travelers are expressing relief at the simplicity of the process. 

“Honestly, the buzz around [ETIAS] on social media made me a little nervous, but after doing some research, that initial shock definitely subsided,” says Alexa Moore , a frequent traveler who visits Europe for both business and leisure at least two to three times per year. “It's still easy for us to travel to Europe. It’s just one more step we have to think about before our trip.”

The authorization will be required for travel to all ETIAS member countries , which fall into one of four categories: full Schengen members like Spain , France, and Italy; European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries like Iceland , Norway, and Switzerland; future Schengen members such as Bulgaria and Cyprus; plus European micro states like Andorra and Monaco .

The goal of ETIAS is to tighten border security, as well as digitally screen and track travelers entering and leaving EU countries. Its purpose and application process are similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program for visitors headed to the US—a fact that has also made many people more understanding of the new requirement.

“I’m bummed about it, but it does seem easy enough,” says Nicki Post, a travel blogger and YouTuber who has spent extensive time in Europe. “It’s only fair since the US makes it more complicated for Europeans and people of other nationalities to enter the US.”

As Europe gets ready to roll out its new ETIAS program, it is important to note that the length of time that Americans can spend in Europe as a tourist is not changing. US passport holders are allowed to stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period. For any stay longer than 90 days, a special visa is required.

At the moment, the exact date when the new travel authorization will become a requirement is still unclear. Moore suspects there will be a bit of chaos when it does launch, but also that ETIAS will ultimately not deter anyone from traveling to Europe .

“Initially, we may see more videos on social media and reports of people forgetting to apply for ETIAS, and possibly not being able to go, but that’s the norm any time we get a new travel requirement in place,” Moore says. “I also think pandemic travel has actually helped people be a little more prepared for the possibility of new systems and requirements being in place like having to submit test results, health information, and other documents in preparation for entry even to a visa-free country.”

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Why U.S. Citizens Will Soon Have to Pay a Small Fee to Travel to Europe

T his year marks the last summer that U.S. passport holders can travel to European countries without a new travel document, known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) , which comes into effect in 2024.

While there is yet no fixed date for next year’s implementation of the ETIAS program, the entry requirement will impact U.S. citizens—and passport holders from a total of 60 nations—wishing to travel to 30 European countries for stays of up to 90 days. These include the 27 member countries in the Schengen Area —including some of the most popular destinations like France, Germany and Italy—as well as non-Schengen E.U. members Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus. Previously, travelers from the U.S. could enter without prior authorization, and the change in policy was made to better track those entering and leaving E.U. countries amid increasing concerns around terrorism and irregular immigration, according to the European Commission . The U.S. has held a similar mandatory travel authorization system, known as the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) since 2009. Visitors from Europe have since been required to have a valid ESTA to arrive in the U.S.

While there has been some confusion about whether ETIAS is a visa, including a misinformed social media post from Donald Trump, the European Commision says it is not a visa but a “small procedural step” to avoid border delays. By comparison, “the procedures for getting a visa to visit Europe are longer, more complex, and more expensive,” Shkurta Januzi, Editor-in-Chief of travel resource website Schengen Visa Info , tells TIME.

“The ETIAS will be one of the cheapest travel authorisations to exist,” says Januzi. ETIAS can be applied for in a number of minutes by providing a few key details, and the application process costs the traveler €7 ($7.72). Januzi notes that visas require fees of more than €80 ($88.2), numerous supporting documents such as bank statements, flight and accommodation reservations, and travel insurance, which is significantly more rigorous than the ETIAS application.

“Sometimes applicants have to wait for months to get a visa appointment, and often, they have to wait over a month to get a response on their application. None of this is required for an ETIAS,” says Januzi, adding that 97% of ETIAS applications are expected to be approved automatically.  

Here’s what else to know about ETIAS and what the new system entails.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization document similar to those used in numerous other countries such as the ESTA form, which allows its holders to stay in the U.S. for a maximum of 90 days. Canada, Australia, and New Zealand also have similar requirements for tourists wishing to enter. 

The travel permit will be valid for three years and can be reused for multiple trips amounting to no more than 90 days in a 180 day period of stay. A tourist must have a valid ETIAS for the entire duration of their stay but they are free to leave and come back within the stipulated limit. ETIAS is valid for arrival by air, sea, or land.

How do you apply for ETIAS?

Once the system for granting ETIAS is in place, travelers will be able to apply for the documentation online and the process is supposed to take a few minutes. Travels can apply on the official website run by the E.U. or other licensed intermediaries. The application process is simple but includes some personal information such as a passport number, date and place of birth, and information about the upcoming trip.

Applicants under the age of 18 or over the age of 70 will not be charged for their ETIAS and no medical information, such as vaccine status, will be required. The authorisation is linked to an individual’s passport and customs officials will ask to see the same form of identification to verify if a passenger is eligible to enter the country. Travelers who do not meet the criteria will be refused entry. If an ETIAS application is rejected, applicants will be informed of the reason.

Why have the travel rules changed?

The incoming changes brought about by the European Union are a bid to secure borders and mitigate terrorism risks. The ETIAS program was approved in 2016 and scheduled to be in place during 2021, but there were delays with the adoption of the ETIAS Regulation and the Entry/Exit System (EES) , an automated IT system for registering travelers from third-countries every time individuals cross an EU external border.

What does this mean for U.S. travelers in Europe?

U.S. passport holders planning trips to Europe should try to apply for an ETIAS at least 96 hours prior to departure. While the approval process typically takes a few minutes to process, and days to come back, travelers could be asked to supply additional information or undertake an interview and these additional steps could lengthen the process.

Other than the additional administrative task and a small fee, the process of traveling to Europe will not vastly change: “The impact of the ETIAS requirement on the way Americans travel to Europe is expected to be unnoticeable, if not negligible, since getting an ETIAS will be super quick, easy and cheap,” Januzi asserts. 

She also notes that there will be a “grace period” of six months from the moment ETIAS is implemented. In this time, citizens arriving in the Schengen Zone without a form will be permitted entry to their destination country with a warning to obtain an ETIAS on their next trip so their trip will not be thrown into chaos should they forget.  

More Must-Reads from TIME

• The New Face of Doctor Who
• Putin’s Enemies Are Struggling to Unite
• Women Say They Were Pressured Into Long-Term Birth Control
• Scientists Are Finding Out Just How Toxic Your Stuff Is
• Boredom Makes Us Human
• John Mulaney Has What Late Night Needs
• The 100 Most Influential People of 2024
• Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Write to Armani Syed at [email protected]

Americans Will Soon Need More Paperwork When Traveling to Europe

Here’s what you need to know about the new requirements, which are scheduled to launch in 2024

Teresa Nowakowski

Daily Correspondent

This summer, tourists have  swarmed Europe in record numbers . Many of these vacationers are enjoying the visa-free travel to Europe afforded by a United States passport—the eighth most powerful passport in the world this year, according to the  Henley Passport Index —or one of the more than 60 other passports that offer visa-free entry to the European Union.

However, travelers from those countries will soon face an extra administrative step before they can enjoy Europe’s coasts, castles and more. As long as they’re staying for less than 90 days, visitors still don’t have to go through the complicated visa process—but they will need to register with the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

To register, travelers must fill out a short application and pay a 7 euro (about $8) fee, though those under 18 or over 70 can register for free.

“It won’t be complicated, it’s just an annoyance,” Peter Greenberg, a travel editor for CBS News, tells Brandon Truitt of  CBS Boston News . “Most Americans, in fact, all Americans, are not used to doing this to go to Europe so there’s going to be lots of surprises at boarding gates with people being denied boarding over the first couple of weeks, if this goes into effect.”

The application will take approximately ten minutes to complete,  AFAR ’s Lyndsey Matthews and Michelle Baran report. Applicants will have to enter personal information, travel document details and intended travel plans, as well as details about criminal convictions and travel to war or conflict zones, according to the  European Union .

Gaining approval should be relatively straightforward: Officials expect 95 percent of applications to receive decisions within minutes of submission, per ETIAS . In some cases, however, if additional documentation is required, the approval process may take as long as four weeks. For applications that are rejected, travelers will need to initiate an appeals process, according to the Washington Post ’s Sofia Andrade.

Once approved, ETIAS authorization lasts for three years, unless the applicant’s passport expires before that time. A successful ETIAS authorization is “linked to a person’s travel document—such as a U.S. passport—and both documents will be needed to board a flight, bus or ship to enter any of the European countries that require ETIAS,” reports Kelly McCarthy of “ Good Morning America .”

The program was originally scheduled to launch at the beginning of 2021, and was then pushed to 2023; now, it’s set to go into effect in 2024, per AFAR . When it does, travelers should expect initial hiccups. 

“Especially at first, I could imagine it might cause slower passport processing and longer delays,” Cameron Hewitt, content and editorial director at Rick Steves’ Europe, tells the Washington Post . “In 2024, I’ll be careful not to cut it too close on those layovers, until it’s clear whether this is an issue.”

Even so, “it certainly shouldn’t cause anyone to rethink a trip to Europe,” he adds. “From what we know, ETIAS looks like it’ll simply be a manageable bit of red tape.”

Get the latest stories in your inbox every weekday.

Teresa Nowakowski | | READ MORE

Teresa Nowakowski is a print and multimedia journalist based in Chicago. They cover history, arts and culture, science, travel, food and other topics.

U.S. Citizens Will Need to Register and Pay a Fee to Travel to Europe—Here’s When and What to Know

The launch of europe’s new etias travel authorization program has been delayed yet again. here’s what travelers need to know for when it finally goes into effect..

• Copy Link copied

France is among the more than two dozen Schengen countries in Europe that will (eventually) have new entry rules.

Photo by Chan Lee/Unsplash

Europe is the most visited region in the world and has always been a very popular destination for U.S. travelers. After pandemic travel restrictions were dropped across Europe in 2022 and now that U.S. citizens are plotting future journeys to the continent once again, they should be aware that the rules for entry into the European Schengen Zone will soon change.

Initially meant to come into effect on January 1, 2021 and then delayed (again and again) until 2024, the European Travel Information and Authorization System ( ETIAS ) is now slated to launch sometime in 2025 (more on the actual launch date below). At that point, all U.S. citizens who want to travel to the 27 member countries of Europe’s Schengen Zone will need to register with ETIAS or risk being turned away at the border.

Here’s everything you need to know about the new ETIAS process.

Why are the requirements for entering Europe changing?

The European Union decided to implement this new travel authorization program to protect and strengthen its borders amid mounting terror threats in Europe. By requiring visitors to register, the hope is that the EU will be able to identify any possible threats or risks associated with travelers coming into the participating countries before they arrive.

Which European nations will require ETIAS authorization to visit?

The new travel authorization applies to those entering any member country of Europe’s Schengen Zone. Currently, that includes 23 countries that are also members of the European Union, four non-EU countries, plus three European micro-states. That means that you’ll need to register to enter:

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Vatican City

While Romania and Bulgaria aren’t currently Schengen countries, they are in the process of joining and will be subject to the same requirements once they do.

However, there are still many European nations that aren’t part of the Schengen Zone, mostly in Eastern Europe. That means you’ll be able to travel to Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Georgia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Türkiye, and Ukraine without an ETIAS registration.

Who will need to obtain ETIAS authorization?

American citizens, as well as travelers from 60 other countries, will require an ETIAS visa waiver to travel to any of the Schengen-zone countries for short stays once the ETIAS program goes into effect. The list of ETIAS-eligible countries includes Canada, Mexico, Australia, and many more. All travelers, regardless of their age, will need their own ETIAS approval in order to travel to Europe’s Schengen Zone countries.

How will travelers apply for ETIAS?

Once the ETIAS application is available online, it should only take about 10 minutes to fill out, according to ETIAS.com, the landing page for news and information regarding the new travel authorization process. To apply, you’ll need a valid passport , an email address, and a debit or credit card to pay the nonrefundable 7-euro application fee, which applies to individuals between the ages of 18 and 70. Those under the age of 18 or over 70 still need to have an ETIAS but will not be charged.

How much will it cost to enter Europe?

To obtain an ETIAS registration, there will be a required, nonrefundable application fee of 7 euros (US$7.43, based on conversion rates at time of publication). Only travelers who are younger than 18 years old or older than 70 years old will be exempt from the fee (though the will still need to have ETIAS approval). There are no other fees associated with the program.

How long will the authorization process take?

After you fill out your application online with the personal information on your passport and answer a series of security and health-related questions, your ETIAS application will be processed immediately, and you will receive an email confirming that your ETIAS has been approved within 96 hours.

“A small percentage of applications may take up to four weeks to process if additional documentation is required from the applicant. If your ETIAS has not yet been approved and you do not have any other travel authorization, you will not be able to enter a country within the European Union,” according to the ETIAS website .

Will you have to reapply for each trip to Europe?

No, you will not need to reapply after each trip to Europe. After you apply for the first time, your ETIAS authorization will be valid for three years—or until your passport expires , whichever comes first. Because the ETIAS is valid for short-term stays of up to 90 days for both leisure and business travelers, you’ll be able to re-enter Europe multiple times within that three-year period without renewing it, as long as your stay doesn’t exceed 90 days within a 180-day period. Those who want to study or work in Europe will need to apply for a proper work or study visa.

Does this mean I will need a visa to travel to Europe?

ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization requirement for visa-free visitors , similar to the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) .

The new entry requirement “is more accurately referred to as a visa-waiver. The ETIAS, like the ESTA, is a travel authorization for travelers not requiring a visa to visit Europe. Under the ETIAS, these visitors will undergo additional security checks prior to being permitted to enter the EU. The ETIAS will be mandatory for citizens of such countries as the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Canada,” states ETIAS.com .

In other words, ETIAS will only pre-screen travelers who do not need a Schengen visa.

“An ETIAS travel authorization does not reintroduce visa-like obligations,” according to a fact sheet provided by the European Commission . “There is no need to go to a consulate to make an application, no biometric data is collected and significantly less information is gathered than during a visa application procedure.”

Why was the launch of ETIAS delayed?

Initially meant to come into effect on January 1, 2021, the ETIAS was first delayed until January 1, 2023, and then again (a few more times) until 2024. It is now slated to enter into operation in 2025, due to delays in the anticipated adoption of the ETIAS regulation plus the fact that ETIAS is being developed closely with the Entry/Exit System (EES). The EES was scheduled to launch in May 2023, but it has been pushed back until 2024. The EES is an electronic system that will keep track of visitors as they cross borders, and its installation is a precondition for ETIAS to enter into operation.

Entry/Exit System (EES)

The Entry/Exit System (EES) will be an automated IT system for registering travellers from third-countries, both short-stay visa holders and visa exempt travellers, each time they cross an EU external border. The system will register the person's name, type of the travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and captured facial images) and the date and place of entry and exit, in full respect of fundamental rights and data protection.

It will also record refusals of entry. EES will replace the current system of manual stamping of passports, which is time consuming, does not provide reliable data on border crossings and does not allow a systematic detection of over-stayers (travellers who have exceeded the maximum duration of their authorised stay).

EES will contribute to prevent irregular migration and help protect the security of European citizens. The new system will also help bona fide third-country nationals to travel more easily while also identifying more efficiently over-stayers as well as cases of document and identity fraud. In addition to this, the system will enable to make a wider use of automated border control checks and self-service systems, which are quicker and more comfortable for the traveller.

The European Agency for the operational management of large-scale IT systems in the area of freedom, security and justice (eu-LISA) is responsible for developing and managing the system.

EES is among the measures undertaken as part of the Security Union and will help achieve the objectives of the European Agenda on Security and the European Agenda on Migration in particular regarding border management and preventing cross-border crime and terrorism.

The European Commission presented the proposal for EES on 6 April 2016 as part of the revised Smart Borders Package . After negotiations with the European Parliament and the Council the co-legislators reached an agreement in July 2017. The EES Regulation, together with a targeted amendment of the Schengen Border Code, were adopted on 20 November 2017 and entered into force on 29 December 2017.

More information

• Entry/Exit System

Press release

• Press release/statement made at the time of agreement on the EES proposal

Documents on Entry/Exit System

• Entry/Exit System factsheet
• Technical study on Smart Borders – final report
• Executive Summary of the Impact Assessment Accompanying the EES Regulation
• Smart Borders Pilot Project - Report on the technical conclusions of the Pilot

Background information

• Background information and history of the Smart Borders Package proposal

Share this page

Immigration help for your business

• News & Reports

U.S. Passport Holders Will Need a Visa to Travel to Europe in 2025

Oct 22, 2023.

Starting in 2025, U.S. passport holders traveling to Europe will need to apply for authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before their visit.

The new rules were set to go into effect in 2024, but E.U. officials announced Friday the rollout would be delayed until the following year.

While U.S. nationals currently enjoy visa-free access to most E.U. countries, this convenience will change once the new law is in effect. Similar to the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization ( ESTA ) process, ETIAS aims to enhance security and facilitate smoother entry for travelers.

ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization linked to a traveler’s passport. It grants short-term entry to European countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. However, an ETIAS does not guarantee automatic entry. Upon arrival, a border guard will verify if you meet the entry conditions.

To apply for an ETIAS, you can fill out the application form on the official ETIAS website or use the mobile application. The cost of applying is $7.79 , but some travelers may be exempt from paying this fee.

ETIAS travel authorization is valid for up to three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Remember, you must have a valid ETIAS during your entire stay, and leaving and re-entering is permitted as long as you respect the 90-day stay limit within 180 days.

For more info, Boundless has put together a detailed guide on ETIAS .

U.S. immigration can be complex and confusing. Boundless is here to help.

Which service.

Looks like you were working on a application just now. Applicants typically only require one service at a time.

You unlocked a $50 discount!

Congrats! Because your friend referred you, your application with Boundless is discounted. Start the application with Boundless within the next 14 days, and you'll save $50.

An official website of the United States government Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Passport Validity Period for Travel to Europe

Many European countries ("the Schengen states") require that your passport be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.  For more information see the Department of State's Schengen web page at http://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/schengen-fact-sheet.html .

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

U.S. citizens traveling abroad

Learn about visa requirements, Trusted Traveler Programs like Global Entry, emergencies, and more.

International driver’s license for U.S. citizens

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to drive while traveling abroad, find out the driver’s license requirements for the country you are visiting.

Do you need a passport to travel to or from U.S. territories or Freely Associated States?

The travel documents you need as a U.S. citizen to travel to or from a U.S. territory or Freely Associated State depend on your destination.

COVID-19 international travel advisories

If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19.

Visa requirements for U.S. citizens traveling abroad

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to travel outside the U.S., you may need a visa to enter a foreign country. Learn how to find your destination's visa requirements.

Save time getting through airport security with Trusted Traveler Programs

Trusted Traveler Programs, like TSA Precheck and Global Entry, can help reduce airport security and border crossing wait times. Learn about applying for and managing memberships.

Emergency help for Americans abroad

Find out what to do in an emergency in another country, including assistance, money and more.

Authenticate an official document for use outside the U.S.

Apostilles and authentication certificates show U.S. documents are genuine. Learn when to use each.

New requirements for Americans traveling to Europe postponed until 2025

Americans eyed upcoming travel to European destinations slightly differently due to news of a requirement that was set to start in 2024 for U.S. passport holders. But now, EU officials have postponed the European Travel Information and Authorisation System ( ETIAS ) launch until spring of 2025.

SchengenVisaInfo.com, a website dedicated to the world's largest visa-free zone where 27 European countries abolished their internal borders known as the Schengen Area, first reported that an EU official confirmed ETIAS won't go live until May 2025, "due to continued delays with the introduction of the related Entry-Exit System (EES), which needs to be operational before ETIAS can be implemented."

An official for the European Union did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment.

What to know about ETIAS for US travelers

If you previously traveled to Europe without a visa, you will now need to apply for authorization through the ETIAS , before visiting.

Today, American travelers have visa-free access to 184 global destinations, according to the Henley Passport Index . And while the U.S. passport is currently ranked eighth-most powerful passport to own, that could be set to shift when the European Union adds its new documentation requirements for U.S. visitors.

The application form, which will be available on the official ETIAS website as well as a mobile application, has a fee of 7 euros or $7.79 U.S. dollars. All communication is done by email.

Once you are approved for travel, the authorization entitles visitors to stay in European countries that require ETIAS for up to 90 days within any 180-day period and travelers must be in possession of a valid ETIAS during their entire stay.

Related Articles

MORE: New warning issued for rebooking air travel after delays, cancellations

According to ETIAS, most applications should be processed within minutes, but in case an application takes longer, decisions will be sent within four days or up to 14 days if the applicant is asked to provide additional documentation.

The European Union encourages travelers to apply for an ETIAS authorization "well in advance of your planned journey."

Confirmation of application submission will be sent on email with a unique number that is needed for future reference.

Upon receiving ETIAS travel authorization, travelers are to ensure that their name, passport number and other information is correct because any mistake will prevent them from crossing the border.

If an application is refused, the email will include the reasons for the decision along with information about how to appeal.

ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years, according to the EU, or until the travel document you used in your application expires, whichever comes first.

MORE: European heat wave breaking records with little relief in sight

The ETIAS authorization is linked to a person's travel document -- such as a U.S. passport -- and both documents will be needed to board a flight, bus or ship to enter any of the European countries that require ETIAS.

Similar to international border requirements with a passport, the ETIAS authorization doesn't guarantee automatic right of entry. "Border guards will verify that you meet the entry conditions" and anyone who does not meet the conditions "will be refused entry," according to the EU.

Click here to learn more about the process from the European Union.

An earlier version of this story was originally published on July 21, 2023.

Related Topics

Up next in travel—.

Frontier Airlines eliminates change fees and introduces 4 new fare classes

Why The Mirage is closing after 34 years

Uber unveils new shuttle service, discounts for students, Costco partnership and more

Bucket list on a budget: Where to eat, sight see and stay in Quebec City and Montreal

Shop editors picks, sponsored content by taboola.

• Privacy Policy — 
• Your US State Privacy Rights — 
• Children's Online Privacy Policy — 
• Interest-Based Ads — 
• Terms of Use — 
• Do Not Sell My Info — 
• Contact Us — 

© 2024 ABC News

Security Alert May 17, 2024

Worldwide caution, update may 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Learn about your destination

Take 90 seconds for safer travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

Enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Two major European airports will let you board a flight without showing your passport

Y ou might agonise over what to pack for your summer holiday, but your passport is the number one item you absolutely cannot forget… right?

Well, not necessarily.

Two airports in Italy are trialling a new system that could mean you no longer need that all-important document to get through security.

FaceBoarding is a facial recognition technology, designed by French IT Company Thales, which means you can pass through the various checkpoints just by showing your face.

The futuristic new equipment is said to be ‘safe, simple and fast’ and ‘allows you to proceed more smoothly and efficiently simply.’

Launching at Milan’s Linate Airport and Catania Airport in Sicily, it’s currently available for passengers flying with ITA Airways and Scandinavian Airlines.

And it really does sound pretty straight forward. After checking in online or at the airport, there are designated kiosks where passengers can register for FaceBoarding. By June, there is also an app promised which means you could do this step at home.

You can register for one flight – or for every flight you take during the course of the trial, until December 2025.

You then scan your passport and boarding pass, as well as your face. There are then separate FaceBoarding lanes at each security check.

The only caveats are that you have to be an adult passenger, and the passport or document you use must hold a biometric passport (the ones with a chip in that you scan at ePassport Gates.)

And, a word of warning: this doesn’t mean you can leave your passport at home. You will still need to carry identification – including your passport and boarding pass – through the airport to catch your flight.

What are the new EU travel rules?

Many British holidaymakers are unaware of changes happening this year to the way we travel to EU countries.

The Entry/Exit Scheme (EES) will come in tandem with us needing to buy a visa waiver to visit EU and Schengen countries.

EES is an automated system to register travellers from non-EU countries every time they cross a border into or out of the EU. 

The system will register the person’s name, the type of travelling document they’re using, biometric data (fingerprints and captured facial images), and the date and place of entry and exit. 

As a result of the UK voting to leave the European Union, Brits will have to follow these rules.

You will have to scan your passport at an automated self-service kiosk before crossing the border.

This process will replace the manual stamping of passports for visitors to countries in the EU and Schengen Area, who are not themselves nationals of EU or Schengen countries. 

The exact date for both changes is still to be confirmed.

If you’re not travelling to Italy this year – but still want a quick airport experience – there’s another little known hack that’s being trialled in London.

Heathrow Airport’s TimeSlot initiative allows you to schedule when you go through security.

You can pick your timeslot a few days before your trip, you then get sent a QR code and, once at the airport, you make your way to the specific signposted area in Heathrow, which allows you to jump the queue.

Not only that, but it’s free of charge, and can be booked for groups of up to five people.

The latest timeslot you can book is 90 minutes before a long-haul flight, and 60 minutes before a short-haul flight.

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

For even more unmissable travel news, features and inspiration in your inbox each week, sign up to Metro's The Getaway newsletter

See Europe as the Europeans do this summer with these pro tips | Cruising Altitude

Americans are heading to Europe for vacation as much as ever these days, and that means the typical tourist spots like Venice, Paris and London are sure to be crowded this year. But, because this is Cruising Altitude, we’ll look at the aviation angle first.

First and foremost: If you’re really determined to go to Europe this summer and haven’t booked yet, stop reading now and get on it. 

“I’ve never seen a year like this … We’re at the point where there’s no more availability,” Brigitte Armand, president of Eurobound , a tour organizer that specializes in European packages, told me. “Book as quickly as possible.” 

How to get around

According to Armand, trains are generally a great way to get from place to place within Europe, but for farther-flung stops, the continent’s network of low-cost airlines offers travelers a reliable alternative.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

“Don’t think of one airline as being your network and entry point within Europe,” Laura Lindsay, public relations director at online booking platform Skyscanner told me.

She said if you’re flying to Europe from the U.S., you may well rely on a large network carrier like British Airways, KLM, or Lufthansa to get across the Atlantic and then book your intra-European flights separately.

“You’re suddenly opening up Europe in a different way if you search for different airports and multiple airlines,” Lindsay said. “It’s pretty straightforward to get around, so don’t feel put off by jumping through a few different countries or trying a few different destinations.” 

Tips for European airlines

According to Lindsay, European low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Easyjet and Wizz Air often have stricter baggage policies like American ULCCs Spirit and Frontier.

“(The) top tip would be always make sure you understand the luggage allowance that is part of your ticket,” she said. “More often than not, don’t book the basic fare without checking.”

It’s also a good idea to be flexible with your airports and dates of travel if you want to get the best deals on those shorter flights.

“You’ll get a number of places that have more than one airport,” Lindsay said, noting that Skyscanner has a tool that allows travelers to search for flights to or from nearby airports when choosing a destination. “Just getting a map out and actually looking at where exactly you want to travel and where the nearby airports are.” 

Armand added that if you take the train instead, you may need to secure a reservation in advance, particularly for some of the more tourist-heavy routes like panoramic trains in Switzerland. 

Last week's Cruising Altitude: There was no Golden Age of flying. We're in it now.

Where to go

If you really want to summer like a European, you should consider places a little more off the radar for most Americans.

“Albania is somewhere that broke through a couple of years ago as somewhere that people recognized as offering a huge value for money,” Lindsay said. “Sarajevo is reporting its busiest April on record for travelers.”

Armand said it can also be a good idea to try different parts of countries that are already popular if you want a more authentic, less crowded experience.

“We recently arranged a whole trip for some clients in the Abruzzo region of Italy,” she said. “The Abruzzo region, it’s on the Adriatic, people don’t know this region, and I think this is the first time ever we put together a package to get to that region.” 

Data from Skyscanner shows that some destinations in Europe are picking up in popularity with travelers on the continent. Here are some trends bubbling up year over year from 2023 to 2024:

◾ Ljubljana, Slovenia, saw a 188% increase in searches from Spanish travelers

◾ Tromso, Norway, saw a 130% increase in interest from Italian holidaymakers

◾ Dusseldorf, Germany, had a 122% spike in interest from Brits

According to Armand, the best last-minute availability seems to be in Eastern Europe, like Bulgaria and Poland.

“There are some good deals there perhaps, even the Czech Republic I’m finding some decent space,” she said.

So go on, get packing.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

Watch CBS News

Surge in passport demand causing lengthy delays, jeopardizing summer travel plans for many

By Kris Van Cleave , Analisa Novak

May 18, 2023 / 7:54 AM EDT / CBS News

Summer travelers  planning to venture abroad are facing a new challenge: delays in obtaining passports. An unprecedented surge in demand for travel documents has created a growing backlog, causing significant delays for those hoping to embark on  international trips .

The standard passport renewal process, which typically takes a few weeks, can now take up to 13 weeks, while even expedited service could take up to nine weeks.

The prolonged waiting times are generating travel anxiety for many.

Kylie Parker, a sophomore at the University of North Carolina, applied for a new, expedited passport several months ago, confident she had ample time before her summer study abroad program. But with her departure for Portugal and Italy now just days away, her passport has yet to arrive, jeopardizing her plans.

"I spent eight hours on the phone with the passport office," she said. "No calls though, no calls back. No contact with anyone. I'm very scared of missing my travel abroad trip."

After finally reaching someone, Parker was informed that the only available in-person appointments were on the same day in New Hampshire or the following morning in Minneapolis, which would require an overnight flight costing $1,200. Alternatively, she said she was told she could schedule an appointment in Seattle, Washington, on the day she is scheduled to depart for Europe.

Caleb Monticalvo, a frustrated applicant from San Francisco, was told to seek other locations.

"They said the only other option was to go to another location, which is in L.A. I'm not going to go to L.A.," he said.

Last year, the State Department issued nearly 22 million passports, a record high. Demand for passports has surged by at least 30% this year, as 500,000 applications come in weekly. 

Despite increased funding and more staff, the backlog has persisted and wait times continue to grow. That has prompted passport offices across the country to see long lines as travelers rush to  secure their travel documents  before an anticipated record-breaking summer travel season. 

Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in March that he recognizes the problem and has implemented a task force  to coordinate efforts focused on resolving the issue.

"We're offering overtime, opening satellite offices to help HQ in processing times," Blinken said.

Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst, said the delays are not only "alarming," but also "embarrassing."

"I know people have been waiting three, four months to get their passports fulfilled," he said.

Travelers should be aware that even passports expiring in 2024 could pose a problem, as many countries require the document to be valid for up to six months beyond the arrival date.

• United States Department of State

Emmy Award-winning journalist Kris Van Cleave is the senior transportation correspondent for CBS News based in Phoenix, Arizona, where he also serves as a national correspondent reporting for all CBS News broadcasts and platforms.

More from CBS News

Rudy Giuliani served indictment in Arizona fake elector case

Map shows states where COVID is "likely growing"

3 moves to avoid as gold's price rises

1 in 5 credit cards are maxed out: 5 ways to lower your balance

• Travel Planning Center
• Ticket Changes & Refunds
• Airline Partners
• Check-in & Security
• Delta Sky Club®
• Airport Maps & Locations
• Flight Deals
• Flight Schedules
• Destinations
• Onboard Experience
• Delta Cruises
• Delta Vacations
• Delta Car Rentals
• Delta Stays
• Onboard Wi-Fi
• Delta Trip Protection
• How to Earn Miles
• Ways to Redeem Miles
• Buy or Transfer Miles
• Travel with Miles
• SkyMiles Partners & Offers
• SkyMiles Award Deals
• SkyMiles Credit Cards
• SkyMiles Airline Partners
• SkyMiles Program Overview​
• How to Get Medallion Status​
• Benefits at Each Tier
• News & Updates
• Help Center
• Travel Planning FAQs
• Certificates & eCredits
• Accessible Travel Services
• Child & Infant Travel
• Special Circumstances
• SkyMiles Help

Travel Within the U.S.

In the United States, you need a valid U.S. government-issued photo ID or a passport from your country of origin to travel through security. You must show that the name on your boarding pass matches the legal name on your unexpired government-issued ID.

Acceptable forms of ID include

Driver's License

Military ID

Other Government-Issued Photo ID Card

See TSA Guidelines for Travel Documents

• Investor Relations
• Business Travel
• Travel Agents
• Comment/Complaint
• Browser Compatibility
• Accessibility
• Booking Information
• Customer Commitment
• Tarmac Delay Plan
• Sustainability
• Contract of Carriage
• Cookies, Privacy & Security
• Human Trafficking Statement (PDF)