Table of Contents
Introduction
Do you know that from October 2025 you may need an ETIAS to visit Europe? If you’ve been planning a trip recently, you’ve probably come across the word ETIAS buzzing around and wondered what it actually means.
Travelling to Europe is about to look a little different for millions of people like you and me, and I need everyone to be onboard so there are no surprises when travelling to the EU. So, if you hold a passport from a visa-exempt country like the UK, US, Canada, or Australia, you’ll soon need something called the ETIAS to visit most European destinations. In the past, I’ve been able to hop around Europe with very little admin, but that’s about to change for all of us.
Now, don’t panic ETIAS is not a “visa visa.” It’s more like Europe’s version of the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA. And you’ve got MBV here to show you the ropes.
While it’s not the typical long-winded visa process you’d face for countries like Uganda (Read: Step-by-step Guide to Applying For a Uganda Tourist Visa), it will become a new requirement that every traveller should understand before booking their next trip. After visiting more than 60 countries, I know how confusing new travel rules can feel, so here’s everything you need to know about ETIAS in 2025 is here.
ETIAS is currently expected to launch in October 2025, though the EU has already delayed it a few times. I’ll keep this post updated as the rollout develops, so be sure to subscribe for updates.
So What is ETIAS?
ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS hereafter). It’s an online security check that travellers from visa-exempt countries must complete before entering the Schengen Area (and a few other associated countries). The best way to think of it is as a Europe’s version of the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA, which I have applied for both and I can vouch and say that they are both super quick online forms that don’t cost a huge amount of money (roughly $50).
Who Will Need A ETIAS?
If you’re from a country that doesn’t normally need a visa to enter the Schengen Zone, you’ll likely need ETIAS come October 2025. I have mentioned some of the countries already, but below for ease these will be the following:
- UK citizens
- US citizens
- Canadian citizens
- Australian citizens
- Japanese citizens
- New Zealand citizens
These are the main countries, but there will also be a range of other countries (50 other countries) added to the list. I would highly recommend checking the full official list of ETIAS-eligible countries here.
Why the EU is Introducing ETIAS
The ETIAS is designed to improve border security within the EU and its neighboring countries, and reduce illegal migration in the Schengen area. It will automate border control checks to help the EU stop visitors overstaying. The EU is expected to start operations of the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). No action is required from travellers at this point. The European Union will announce the the specific date for the start of ETIAS before its launch.
When ETIAS is introduced, travellers will need to apply for authorisation to enter Schengen area countries if using a UK or other country passport. You will also need to provide personal information and details about your trip, and pay a 20 Euro fee, as part of the authorisation process.
The EU has already set out more information on ETIAS, including what information will be required from each nationality, on the EU’s official Travel Europe website.
When Does ETIAS Start?
ETIAS is currently expected to launch in October 2025 (though the EU has already delayed it several times already). ETIAS will be linked to your passport electronically, so you won’t need a stamp every time you enter the EU. However, I have noted and maybe you have as well that the EU has already delayed the date several times, but travellers should prepare as if it will go imminently.
How Do You Apply for ETIAS?
I imagine as I mentioned earlier that the process will be simple and entirely online, similar to the ones in the USA and Canada. I imagine it will be something of the liking below:
- Fill in a short application form (passport details, travel info, security questions).
- Pay a small fee (€7-25 or for travellers aged 18–70; free for under 18s & over 70s).
- Wait for approval, most applications are likley to be processed within minutes, but it can take up to 96 hours.
- Your ETIAS will be valid for 3 years (or until your passport expires, so worth having a passport that doesn’t expire within 6 months).
MBV Travel Tips for ETIAS
- Check your passport: It must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your travel dates.
- Apply early: Don’t leave it to the day before your trip. I would suggest giving yourself at least a week before you travel to Europe.
- Save a copy: Keep both a digital copy on your phone and a printout, just in case.
- One application covers multiple trips: If you’re travelling around Europe, you don’t need a new ETIAS for each country. It will last 3 years.
Final Views
And there you have an overview of the ETIAS application process. With all countries implemented their own online version it was only a matter of time that this was going to happen in Europe.
Travel admin isn’t the fun part of exploring the world, but I would say that sometimes it’s necessary. ETIAS is just another step to make your European adventures smoother and safer. Whether you’re planning a weekend in Paris, a summer in Spain, or a foodie tour through Italy, knowing what to expect when the ETIAS is fully implemented is important so that you are sorted and can just focus on what really matters: the experiences, the food, and the memories.
What are your views on the ETIAS coming shortly? Do you think it’s unfair or are you on the fence with me that it was only a matter of time coming? Lets meet in the comments.
P.S. I’ll update this guide regularly as ETIAS rolls out because it may be slightly delayed. If you want to be kept in the loop subscribe to the website now and never miss a beat.
Speak soon,
MBV x
