Americans can breathe a little easier when thinking about their future travel plans to Europe, as more updates have been made on the status of ETIAS. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is a new travel authorization that U.S. passport holders must eventually obtain to enter 30 different European countries. While no specific date has been set, the European Union has stated it will launch in 2026.
The new system was announced in 2016 and ever since has faced multiple delays. It was expected to roll out in fall of 2025, but the latest announcement means Americans won’t need to worry about extra travel authorizations just yet, beyond the usual passport requirements.
Why has ETIAS been delayed?
Despite being scheduled to launch this year, ETIAS is said to go into effect six months after EES (a new Entry/Exit System), which will launch sometime in October 2025. The delay is a result of concerns about the system’s reliability and lack of participant readiness.
What’s the difference between ETIAS and EES?
In an effort to improve border security, ETIAS is an entry requirement for non-EU nationals visiting for a short-term. Travelers must have their ETIAS prior to departure. Meanwhile, EES is an automated IT system used to electronically register travelers entering and exiting participating European countries.
When will ETIAS go into effect?
The European Union stated that ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026, with a specific date to be provided several months prior to its launch. Since there will be a grace period after the launch, passport holders may not even need to worry about obtaining an ETIAS until 2027.
Which countries will require ETIAS?
ETIAS will be required for citizens of nearly 60 countries to enter the EU Schengen Area and other countries under the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) as well as European microstates with open borders. This includes the following:
- Andorra
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Monaco
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- San Marino
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Vatican City
For more information on how to apply, what you’ll need and more, check out our full guide to ETIAS here.