Do Australian nationals need to obtain an ETIAS to travel to Europe?
Yes. From the end of 2026, Australian citizens will be required to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization. before you can enter a Schengen country for a short stay.
Although Australia has a visa waiver for stays of less than 90 days, ETIAS becomes a prior administrative requirement, similar to the ESTA used by the USA. It enables European authorities to screen travellers to enhance security, while maintaining a simple, digital procedure.
What exactly is ETIAS?
The ETIAS is an electronic authorization linked to the passport, which will be required for all Australians entering member countries of the Schengen area. The ETIAS is not a visa, but an automated security measure.
It will apply to :
- of up to 90 days in a 180-day period,
- for tourism, business, family or transit purposes.
The authorization will be valid for 3 years or until the passport expires, and will allow multiple entries.
Do Australians need a Schengen visa in addition to the ETIAS?
No. Australians will continue to be visa-exempt for short stays.
ETIAS simply adds a mandatory security filter before departure.
However, a European visa is still required for :
- Studying in Europe,
- Working in a Schengen country,
- Settle in permanently for more than 90 days.
In such cases, contact the embassy or consulate of the country concerned.
How do I obtain ETIAS if I am an Australian citizen?
Here are the steps to follow to obtain the ETIAS:
- Visit the official ETIAS website (European Union platform);
- Complete the ETIAS form online (identity, passport, travel history, etc.);
- Pay ETIAS fees (free for under-18s and over-70s) ;
- Receive a response within minutes to 96 hours;
- Travel with a valid biometric Australian passport.
Please note The ETIAS form is only available in electronic form. It is not available in PDF format and cannot be completed off-line.
In which European countries is ETIAS compulsory for Australians?
The ETIAS is required for entry into the 30 countries of the Schengen area and assimilated countries, including :
- ETIAS for France
- ETIAS for Italy
- ETIAS for Spain
- ETIAS for Germany
- ETIAS for the Netherlands
- ETIAS for Poland
- ETIAS for Belgium
- ETIAS for Portugal
- ETIAS for Greece
- ETIAS for Sweden
Click here for a complete list of countries requiring ETIAS.
ETIAS FAQ for Australian citizens
Yes, you need an ETIAS authorization to enter the Schengen area.
No. The ETIAS is valid for all Schengen countries, as long as the total length of stay does not exceed 90 days.
Yes, all travelers, regardless of age, must have their own authorization. Children under 18 are exempt.
It is advisable to apply at least 4 to 5 days before departure, although authorization is often issued in a matter of minutes.
No. For any paid activity or long-term stay, an appropriate visa is required.