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Apply for ETIAS (Step-by-Step)

Introduction

ETIAS will be a mandatory travel authorisation for visa‑exempt visitors entering 30 European countries for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180‑day period). The application will be completed online via the official EU website or the official mobile app once ETIAS launches.

Your ETIAS Application Journey

Prepare Documents
Complete Form
Pay & Submit
Receive Decision

How to Apply

Prepare what you need
Step 01

Prepare what you need

Before you start, have these items ready:

  • A valid passport (the ETIAS approval is linked to this passport)
  • A working email address (you receive the decision by email)
  • A payment card (fee applies for most applicants; some age groups may be exempt)
  • Basic personal details and answers to background questions
Check Requirements
Use the official ETIAS website or app
Step 02

Use the official ETIAS website or app

When ETIAS opens, you will submit your application using:

  • The official ETIAS website (europa.eu domain), or
  • The official ETIAS mobile app

You will enter your details, review them carefully, and submit the form.

ETIAS Overview
Complete the online form
Step 03

Complete the online form

The form is designed to be completed quickly. You'll typically provide:

  • Personal information (name, date of birth, nationality)
  • Passport information (document number, issue/expiry dates)
  • Contact details (email)
  • First intended country of entry (e.g., France, Spain, Italy)
  • Background questions (security, migration, and health-related)
Pay the fee and submit
Step 04

Pay the fee and submit

Most applicants will pay the ETIAS fee during submission. After payment:

  • Your application is sent for automated checks
  • Many applications are expected to be decided within minutes
  • Some cases may take longer if additional checks are required
Costs & Validity
Receive a decision by email
Step 05

Receive a decision by email

You will receive the result by email:

  • Approved: You can travel using the same passport you applied with
  • Pending: You may be asked for extra information
  • Refused: You receive the reason and information about next steps (including appeal options)

Requirements & Documents

ETIAS is designed to be simpler than a visa application. In most cases, you will not need to visit a consulate or submit large document packages. You will mainly need accurate information and a valid travel document.

Passport

  • Your passport should be valid and accepted for travel to the ETIAS area
  • ETIAS is linked to your passport, so you must travel with the same document

Email Address

An email address you can access (decision is delivered electronically)

Payment Method

Credit or debit card, if a fee applies to your application

Personal Details

Address, contact information, and basic personal data

Travel Details

First destination country and basic trip context

Background Declarations

Security, migration, and health-related questions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Typing errors

Mistakes in passport number or expiry date can cause delays or rejection.

Inaccessible email

Using an email address you can't access while travelling.

Expiring passport

Applying with a passport that will expire soon (ETIAS becomes invalid when the passport expires).

Unofficial websites

Using third-party sites that charge excessive fees for basic services.

Check Eligibility
Use Tool
Costs & Validity
Learn More
FAQs: Requirements
View FAQs

Corrections & Refusals

Most applications are expected to be processed quickly, but errors or database "matches" can lead to delays or refusal. Knowing what to do next can save time and reduce travel disruption.

If you made a mistake

  • If you entered incorrect passport details, you may need to submit a new application (because the authorisation is linked to a specific passport).
  • Always keep your application reference information and confirmation emails.

If your application is refused

If refused, the decision should explain:

  • The reason for refusal (at a high level)
  • The authority that made the decision
  • How to appeal or request review (procedures depend on the country handling the case)
Read FAQs about Refusals

When to Apply for ETIAS

ETIAS is planned to start in Q4 2026. You cannot apply yet. The EU will announce when the official application portal and mobile app become available.

2024
EES Begins
Entry/Exit System rollout starts
Mid 2026
EES Operational
Fully active across all borders
Q4 2026
ETIAS Launch
Applications open

Recommended Timing (Once Applications Open)

Apply well before departure

Especially if your travel date is fixed

Most decisions within minutes

But some cases may take longer if additional checks are needed

Plan Ahead If...

Renew first; you will need ETIAS linked to the new passport. ETIAS validity cannot exceed your passport expiry date.

Previous overstays or entry refusals may trigger additional review. Apply with extra time before your travel date.

If your personal data may be similar to someone on a watchlist (name matches can trigger manual checks), allow extra processing time.

Stay Updated — ETIAS start alerts by email

Get notified when ETIAS launches and receive updates on application requirements, fee changes, and important deadlines.