Tourism Industry Pushes Back on ETIAS Fee Plan

A coalition of European tourism and mobility organisations has asked EU institutions to rethink the proposed ETIAS fee increase from €7 to €20 per application. While the sector supports secure and efficient border management, it argues that any major fee change should be clearly justified and proportionate.

Why the sector says the increase is problematic

Industry representatives stress that a nearly threefold rise could add pressure for families and frequent travellers, especially in a period of higher travel-related costs. They also note that ETIAS was originally agreed with a €7 fee framework in 2018, and say the new amount requires stronger evidence.

Call for transparency and evidence

The coalition is requesting a full impact assessment, including a cost breakdown and an explanation of whether lower options were examined. It also warns against relying on non-EU systems as automatic pricing references without a specific legal and operational justification for ETIAS.

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What the coalition wants next

Tourism groups are urging the Council and the European Parliament to seek a more proportionate, evidence-based fee level. They also propose that any ETIAS surplus revenue should support tourism-related priorities such as infrastructure, workforce skills, and sustainability measures.