Do British nationals need to obtain an ETIAS to travel in Europe?
Yes. Since the Brexit, UK citizens no longer enjoy freedom of movement within the European Union. From the ETIAS start-up date, they will need to obtain prior travel authorization to enter the Schengen area.
Even for short stays as tourists, Britons will have to take this step online before their departure. This system, inspired by the American ESTA model, aims to reinforce security without imposing a visa requirement on nationals of partner countries, including the UK.
What exactly is ETIAS?
The ETIAS is an electronic authorization linked to the passport for travel in Europe. It is valid for 3 years and allows British citizens to travel in Europe for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. It is required for : Tourism, business travel, private or family visits, transit.
The ETIAS is not a visa, but is required before boarding a flight to one of the countries concerned.
Do Britons need a Schengen visa in addition to ETIAS?
No, not for short stays. British nationals are exempt from Schengen visas for tourist stays of less than 90 days.
However, a national visa is required for :
- Studying in an EU country,
- Work or do an internship,
- Settling permanently in Europe.
The ETIAS is therefore only valid for short-term non-profit stays.
How do I obtain ETIAS if I am a British citizen?
Here are the steps to follow from the official launch:
- Go to the official ETIAS website;
- Fill in the ETIAS form online;
- Pay ETIAS fees. The ETIAS is free for people under 18 and over 70;
- Wait for confirmation e-mail, maximum 4 days;
- Travel with a valid biometric passport.
Which countries are covered by ETIAS for the UK?
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 the full list of countries requiring ETIAS.
Things to remember for UK citizens
From the official launch date, British citizens will be required to obtain an ETIAS to travel within the European Schengen area.
This system aims to prevent security threats while keeping procedures simple and digital for regular visitors. The application is quick, inexpensive and indispensable.
FAQ – ETIAS for UK citizens
Yes, even for a weekend or tourist stay, ETIAS will be required on entry.
No. To work, you need to apply for a visa or permit from the country concerned.
Yes, once validated, the ETIAS is valid for all Schengen countries.
No. The ETIAS is valid for 3 years, unless your passport expires earlier.
Yes, the ETIAS is electronically linked to the biometric passport required for boarding.