Those planning to travel to Europe in 2024 should be aware of a new requirement that will come into effect for US passport holders.
If you have previously traveled to Europe without a visa, you must now apply for authorization via the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) prior to your visit.
Here’s what you need to know:
According to the Henley Passport Index, American travelers now have visa-free access to 184 destinations around the world. And while the US passport is currently the eighth most powerful passport overall, that could change if the European Union adds its new documentation requirements for US visitors.
A fee of EUR 7 or USD 7.79 will be charged for the application form, which will be available on the official ETIAS website and as a mobile application. All communication is via email.
Once you have been granted travel authorization, the authorization entitles visitors to stay in European countries that require ETIAS for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, and travelers must hold a valid ETIAS throughout their stay.
According to ETIAS, most applications should be processed within minutes. However, if an application takes longer, decisions will be sent within four days, or up to 14 days if the applicant is asked to provide additional documentation.
The European Union recommends travelers to apply for an ETIAS authorization “well before the planned trip”.
A confirmation of submission of the application will be sent via email with a unique number needed for future reference.
After receiving the ETIAS travel authorization, travelers must ensure that their name, passport number and other information is correct as any error will prevent them from crossing the border.
If an application is denied, the email will include the reasons for the decision and information on how to appeal.
The ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years according to the EU or until the travel document you used in your application expires, whichever comes first.
The ETIAS authorization is linked to an individual’s travel document – such as a US passport – and both documents are required to board a flight, bus or ship and enter any of the European countries that require ETIAS.
Similar to international border requirements with a passport, the ETIAS authorization does not guarantee an automatic right of entry. “Border guards will check whether you meet the entry requirements” and anyone who does not meet the conditions “will be refused entry,” the EU says.
Click here to learn more about the process from the European Union.
The video in the media player above was used in a previous report.