ETIAS 2026: do I need a travel permit for Europe?
The ETIAS is a future travel authorization for travelers from visa-exempt countries in the Schengen area.
In 2026, many travelers are wondering whether this authorization will already be compulsory to enter Europe. The launch date of ETIAS has been postponed several times, so the situation remains peculiar for 2026.
Here’s what you need to know about ETIAS in 2026.
ETIAS in 2026: is it compulsory this year?
No. ETIAS will not be mandatory in 2026.
The launch of the European system has been postponed several times since it was first announced. According to the latest timetable published by the European Union, the system should be in place by the end of 2026.
However, even after its technical launch, authorization will not be immediately compulsory for travelers.
| Step | Scheduled date |
|---|---|
| Setting up the ETIAS system | Late 2026 |
| Transition period | Early 2027 |
| ETIAS mandatory | Mid-2027 |
During the transitional period planned for the first half of 2027, travelers should be encouraged to apply for ETIAS, but entry into the Schengen area will still be possible without this authorization.
In practice, travelers can continue to visit Europe in 2026 as they do today, with no additional formalities other than the usual entry rules.
How much will ETIAS cost in 2026?
The currently announced fee for ETIAS authorization is €20 per request.
This amount corresponds to the cost of processing a travel authorization application and covering the system’s administrative costs.
However, it is important to note that :
- This ETIAS price is the one announced for 2026
- It could evolve before the system is fully implemented.
- Final pricing is expected to be confirmed at launch.
The ETIAS is valid for 3 years and allows multiple entries into the Schengen area, making it a relatively simple and inexpensive formality compared to a Schengen visa.
In which countries can I travel with ETIAS in 2026?
The ETIAS authorization will enable travel to all Schengen countries and some associated states.
Once the system is up and running, a single authorization will be required to travel to several European destinations, as long as the stays are of short duration.
For the full list of countries concerned, please visit our dedicated page: List of countries accessible with ETIAS
These destinations include most of the countries in Western and Central Europe that are part of the Schengen area.
ETIAS 2027: what could change?
The year 2027 will mark an important milestone in the implementation of the ETIAS system.
Following the technical roll-out scheduled for the end of 2026, a transition period is planned for early 2027. During this phase, travellers will be encouraged to apply for ETIAS authorization before departure.
From mid-2027, authorization will be compulsory for all travelers concerned.
In concrete terms, this means that :
- An ETIAS request must be made before travelling.
- Airlines will be able to verify authorization prior to boarding
- Entry into the Schengen area may be refused without a valid ETIAS.