Originally slated to launch January 2021, the ETIAS, European Travel Information Authority System will now take effect January 1, 2023.  This means U.S. citizens traveling to Europe must register with ETIAS or risk being denied boarding flights to many European countries.  What do you need to know?

  1. The ETIAS applies to 26 Schengen Zone European countries; not all European countries fall under this jurisdiction.  Visit www.schengenvisainfo.com for more details.
  2. This is not a VISA.  Rather, ETIAS is a travel authorization for visa-free visitors.
  3. The application will be made available online soon and will take a mere 10 minutes to apply.
  4. You’ll need a passport, email address, a debit or credit card, and pay a €7 application fee.
  5. The fee applies to persons aged 18-70; if younger or older, you must apply yet there is no fee.
  6. The application contains a few health and security related questions, and the application is granted immediately, with an email confirmation within 2-4 days.
  7. Your ETIAS will be valid for 3 years, or when your passport expires; whichever comes first.
  8. This program is not limited to U.S. travelers; there are over 50 other countries whose residents will also be required to have an ETIAS when visiting countries in the Schengen Zone.

Keep checking the website if you plan to travel or organize meetings in Europe as of January 1, 2023.