Do Americans need to obtain an ETIAS authorization to travel to Europe?
Yes. U.S. citizens will need to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization to enter the Schengen Area. The system is expected to launch in 2027.
Europe is implementing this system to strengthen border security while maintaining ease of access for visa-waiver countries, such as the United States. It works similarly to the U.S. ESTA system, which has been required since 2009 for Europeans traveling to the United States.
What exactly is the ETIAS system?
The ETIAS system is not a visa, but an electronic travel authorization. It is an online form that must be completed, and a response is typically provided within 96 hours. Once approved, the authorization is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport. It will be required for:
- Stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period;
- Tourism, business travel, family visits, or even layovers.
Once granted, the authorization will be valid for 3 years or until the U.S. passport expires. See our page on the validity period of the ETIAS authorization for more details.
Do Americans need a Schengen visa in addition to the ETIAS system?
No. U.S. citizens will continue to be eligible for the visa waiver program for short stays. The ETIAS system is an additional formality, but it does not replace the Schengen visa. Visit our page on the differences between the ETIAS system and the Schengen visa to learn more.
On the other hand:
- For a stay of more than 90 days, a long-stay visa is still required;
- For reasons such as work or study, you must apply for the appropriate visa at the consulate of the country in question.
How do you obtain the ETIAS system if you are a U.S. citizen?
Here are the steps to follow once the system is up and running:
Which European countries will require Americans to use the ETIAS system?
The ETIAS system is required for entry into the 30 countries of the Schengen Area and equivalent countries. Here are the main destinations:
ETIAS France
ETIAS Italy
ETIAS Spain
ETIAS Germany
ETIAS Netherlands
ETIAS Belgium
ETIAS Portugal
ETIAS Greece
ETIAS Poland
ETIAS Sweden
ETIAS Norway
Frequently Asked Questions — ETIAS for U.S. Citizens
Is the ETIAS system mandatory for all Americans, even for a short stay?
Yes. Even for a stay of just a few days in a European country, an ETIAS authorization will be required once the system is in place.
Does an American child also need to use the ETIAS system?
Yes. Authorization is required for every traveler, regardless of age. However, children under 18 are exempt from fees. Please see our page on the ETIAS system for minors.
Does the ETIAS system replace a Schengen visa?
No. The ETIAS system is a pre-entry authorization, but it is not a visa. For stays longer than 90 days or for certain purposes (work, study), a visa is still required.
Can you travel to multiple European countries with a single ETIAS authorization?
Yes. Once obtained, the authorization allows you to travel freely throughout all Schengen Area member countries for 90 days out of any 180-day period. See the rules for obtaining ETIAS authorization for more details.
How long before departure should I apply for the ETIAS system?
It is recommended that you submit your application at least 4 days before departure, even though most responses are processed within a few minutes. If your application is denied, please visit our page on ETIAS application denials.