Europe is on practically every traveler’s bucket list. And after spending a few months around Europe, I don’t blame you. But the rules are changing, and if you want to plan a trip to the EU, you’ll need to know all about the new ETIAS program…

From the soaring calderas in Santorini to the whitewashed villages in Southern Spain, Europe is a land like no other.

The region is filled with diversity and beautiful sights, and it’s also easy to access from most areas of the world. Well, at least it was…

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but if you’re planning a trip around Europe or the EU soon, you’ll need to factor the ETIAS program into the planning process.

Starting in 2024, with the kick-off of ETIAS, travel to Europe will change big time. About 1.4 billion travelers from over 60 countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, will need permission to visit many European places.

These are all travelers who, in the past, could enter these European countries visa-free! 😭

At first glance, it sounds complicated. More paperwork. Longer waiting times and delays.

But don’t panic because I’ve got your back. Since I’m currently planning my next stint in Europe, I’ve done a deep dive into what this program is and what we can expect when it rolls out in 2024.

With this guide, you won’t need to stop packing for Europe, and you’ll be more prepared for when you do decide to visit!

What Is ETIAS?

ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorization System, is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals. It’s not the same as a visa and is more like the ESTA or eTA programs in the US and Canada, respectively.

Now not all European countries will be implementing ETIAS. You’ll need to apply if you want to plan a visit to one of 30 European countries, mainly located in the Schengen Zone.

The Schengen area is the world’s largest visa-free zone, consisting of over 27 countries—many of which are part of the EU. The ETIAS program is designed to help better protect these collective countries’ borders.

To get into the nitty gritty details… what should you expect the ETIAS travel authorization to look like? Well, it’ll be electronically linked to your passport and remain valid for up to 3 years or until your passport expires.

If you need to get a new passport during this timeframe, you’ll also have to apply for a new ETIAS authorization.

Which Countries Do You Need ETIAS Authorization to Enter?  

30 European countries require visa-exempt travelers to get an ETIAS digital-waiver authorization. These include:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Bulgaria
• Croatia
• Cyprus
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Iceland
• Italy
• Latvia
• Liechtenstein
• Lithuania
• Luxembourg
• Malta
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Romania
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland