Last year, we reported on the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization System (better known as ETIAS) that is to fundamentally change how U.S. passport holders enter the continent. While its launch was set for late 2026, the system has been delayed yet again.
According to the EU’s official page, “ETIAS is currently not in operation and no applications for travel authorisations are collected at this point. The European Union will inform about the specific date for the start of ETIAS several months prior to its launch.”
With no set date in sight, Americans won’t need to worry about any extra applications of fees for their upcoming vacations, beyond the usual passport requirements. So let’s go over what changed and expand on all there is to know about ETIAS.
Why has ETIAS been delayed?
The ETIAS rollout is linked to another new European border initiative: the Entry-Exit System (EES). ETIAS is planned to be launched six months after EES is successfully rolled out, and while EES went live in April, it hasn’t exactly had an easy run. In several instances, it has created hours-long queues at airports and technical challenges.
What do Americans need to do right now?
Absolutely nothing! Because the system is not yet live, you don’t need an ETIAS authorization to travel to Europe. In fact, officials are warning travelers to steer clear and beware of scams. Any third-party website offering to process an ETIAS application for you right now is fraudulent. Once ETIAS does launch, the official application will cost €20 (about $22) and will be processed directly through the official EU website or mobile app.
Note: Travelers under 18 or over 70 will be exempt from paying this fee, though they’ll still need to submit an application.
Which countries will eventually require ETIAS?
When going into effect, ETIAS will be required for citizens of roughly 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S., Canada and the UK) to enter the EU Schengen Area, as well as European microstates with open borders. The list of 30 countries include:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
For now, just pack your bags and enjoy your visa-free European vacation… at least throughout 2026!
