Traveling to Europe is About to Be More Difficult and Expensive

Traveling to Europe is already quite a burden for Americans with the long flights and expensive air fares – and that doesn't even account for the money that must be spent on accommodations, food, travel, and other things once you get there.

Planning such a trip obviously takes a considerable amount of planning to make sure everything is in order, and it takes a significant financial investment, too.

Unfortunately for travelers, they're about to face yet another obstacle – and yet another cost.

European Union Rolls Out ETIAS

Beginning in the last quarter of 2026, the European Union (EU) will be rolling out the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) for visa-free travelers to 30 EU countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

The new system will prescreen travelers, with the ETIAS official website claiming that its design is "to strengthen European security and security of those who travel."

"ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to any of these 30 European countries. It is linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation," the website states.

"With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays - normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions."

Not the Same as a Travel Visa

While applying for ETIAS travel authorization is yet another step travelers must take before their next trip to Europe, it is not the same thing as a travel visa.

The new system applies to 59 visa-exempt countries, including the United States and Canada.

"ETIAS is not a visa and does not reintroduce visa-like obligations,” European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper previously told USA TODAY. "There will be no need to go to a consulate to make an application, no biometric data will be collected and no additional documentation will be required beyond a valid travel document."

Application Process and Fees

Travelers will need to apply for ETIAS travel authorization in advance of their travels to the 30 EU countries. This can be done on either the official ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile application.

Most applications are processed in a matter of minutes. However, it is possible the process could take up to a month, so travelers are warned to apply for ETIAS authorization well in advance of their trip.

"Most applications are processed within minutes," the ETIAS website reads. "It is possible, however, that your application may take longer to process. If so, you will receive a decision within four days. Please note that this period could be extended by up to 14 days if you are requested to provide additional information or documentation, or up to 30 days if you are invited to an interview. This is why you should apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation well in advance of your planned journey."

Applying for the ETIAS travel authorisation €20, which is equivalent to about $23.20. While this may not be a massive sum of money, it can add up quickly if you are traveling with a group or with a family.