INSIGHT

EU Travel Update: What we know about the EU's ETIAS

Updated 30th July 2026

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is launching later this year in Q4 2026. If you manage corporate travel to Europe, it's time to prepare.

ETIAS isn't a visa, but it's mandatory for non-EU nationals visiting Europe's Schengen zone. Think of it as a pre-security check before your travellers board their flights.

Beware of ETIAS scams

Applications aren't open yet, so your travellers don't need to do anything right now. Be cautious of third-party websites appearing to offer ETIAS services. These are often scams charging inflated fees or stealing personal information.

When applications open, direct your travellers to the official European Commission website: travel-europe.europa.eu.

ETIAS at a glance

Detail	Information
Launch date	Q4 2026, followed by a 12-month transitional period
Application fee	€20 (free for under-18s and over-70s)
Validity	Three years or until passport expires
Processing time	Most approvals within minutes; complex cases up to 30 days
Who needs it	Non-EU nationals who don't require a Schengen visa

What is ETIAS?

The European Commission will introduce ETIAS to screen visa-free travellers before they enter the EU. It serves two purposes:

Identifying potential security risks and preventing undocumented immigration
Making border crossings smoother for approved travellers.

ETIAS authorisation acts as a digital travel permit. Non-EU travellers will need it to enter any of the 30 countries requiring ETIAS, including all Schengen zone nations plus Cyprus, Ireland, and Norway.

When does ETIAS launch?

ETIAS is set to launch in Q4 2026. The exact date hasn't been confirmed yet, and the programme has been delayed several times before, so there's a chance it could be pushed back again.

Once ETIAS launches, there'll be a 12-month transitional and grace period. During this time, travellers are strongly encouraged to apply, but enforcement will be gradual. After the transitional period ends, ETIAS becomes strictly mandatory. Travellers without approved authorisation will be refused entry.

The European Commission will announce updates on the official ETIAS website.

Who needs an ETIAS?

All non-EU nationals who currently travel visa-free to the EU must apply for ETIAS authorisation before their trip. This includes business travellers from countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and dozens of others.

EU citizens and nationals from EU member states don't need ETIAS, regardless of any other nationalities they hold.

How much does ETIAS cost?

The application fee is €20 per person for travellers aged 18–70.

Fee exemptions apply to:

Travellers under 18
Travellers over 70
Family members of EU citizens with free movement rights

Your travellers will pay the fee online using a credit or debit card when they submit their application.

How does the ETIAS application process work?

The application is straightforward. Here's what your travellers need to know:

Fill in the online form: The application takes around 10 minutes and requires basic personal details and passport information. No supporting documents are needed in most cases.
Pay the €20 fee: Payment is made online during the application process (unless exempt).
Receive authorisation: The European Commission expects 95% of applications to be approved within minutes. Travellers will receive their ETIAS authorisation via email.
Complex cases: If further checks are needed, processing can take up to 30 days. In rare cases, applications may be denied.
Travel to Europe: Airlines will check ETIAS authorisation along with passports at check-in. Border officials will verify it again upon entry.

Key details:

ETIAS authorisation is valid for three years or until the traveller's passport expires, whichever comes first.
It allows unlimited entries during the validity period.
Each stay can be up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
ETIAS doesn't collect biometric data and requires less information than a traditional visa.

Important: Travellers will be refused entry if they don't have approved ETIAS authorisation after the transitional period ends.

How FCM can help with ETIAS

While FCM won't process ETIAS applications directly, we'll keep you informed and prepared as the launch approaches. We're monitoring developments closely and will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available.

If you need help planning for ETIAS and ensuring your travel programme is ready for the changes, contact your FCM Account Manager today.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between ETIAS and a visa?

ETIAS is a travel authorisation, not a visa. It's faster, cheaper, and requires less documentation. It's designed for visa-free travellers who currently don't need a visa to enter the EU.
Can travellers apply for ETIAS now?

No. Applications aren't open yet. The European Commission will announce when the application portal goes live, likely closer to the Q4 2026 launch date.
What happens if my traveller's ETIAS application is denied?

If an application is denied, the traveller will need to apply for a full Schengen visa through the embassy or consulate of the country they're visiting.
Does ETIAS apply to UK nationals?

Yes. After Brexit, UK nationals are considered non-EU nationals and will need ETIAS to travel to the Schengen zone.
How long is ETIAS valid?

ETIAS authorisation is valid for three years or until the traveller's passport expires, whichever comes first.
Can travellers use ETIAS for multiple trips?

Yes. Once approved, ETIAS allows unlimited entries to the EU for up to 90 days per visit within any 180-day period.
What if my traveller's passport expires before their ETIAS?

They'll need to apply for a new ETIAS when they renew their passport. ETIAS is linked to the passport number, so a new passport means a new application.
Will airlines check ETIAS before boarding?

Yes. Airlines are required to verify ETIAS authorisation before allowing passengers to board flights to the EU.
What information does the ETIAS application require?

The application asks for basic personal details, passport information, travel plans, and background questions related to security and health. It doesn't require biometric data or supporting documents in most cases.
What's the transitional period?

After ETIAS launches in Q4 2026, there'll be a 12-month transitional and grace period. During this time, travellers are encouraged to apply, but enforcement will be gradual. After the period ends, ETIAS becomes strictly mandatory.

While FCM will not process or provide ETIAS directly, you can count on us to keep you informed and prepared for what comes next. We will continue to provide updates as we learn more. If you need help planning for ETIAS, contact your FCM Account Manager today.