URGENT UPDATE: Starting in 2027, UK travelers will be required to pay €20 for ETIAS travel authorization to enter 30 European countries. This significant change comes as a direct result of Brexit, which alters how UK passport holders can access popular European destinations.
The new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) mandates that all non-EU nationals, including UK holidaymakers, secure authorization before traveling. With this ETIAS, travelers can visit these nations for short stays, up to 90 days within a 180-day period, making it crucial for anyone planning a holiday in Europe.
Originally anticipated to cost only €7, EU officials have now confirmed the fee will be nearly tripled, raising concerns among potential travelers. However, children under 18 and adults over 70 will be exempt from this charge, providing some relief for families. For example, a family of four traveling with two children would pay just €40.
The ETIAS has faced multiple delays, with the EU Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs estimating its launch in the final quarter of 2026. A grace period will follow, ensuring that the authorization does not become mandatory until 2027, allowing travelers time to prepare.
This travel authorization will be electronically linked to passports and will apply to countries including Austria, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Sweden, and others. Notably, Cyprus will also require ETIAS once it joins the Schengen zone.
While most ETIAS applications are expected to be approved quickly, there are instances where an application could be denied. Reasons include invalid passports, being flagged as risks, or submitting incomplete documents. Should a denial occur, travelers have the right to appeal.
As travel resumes and restrictions ease, this new requirement adds an additional layer of planning for UK travelers. With the deadline approaching, it is essential to stay informed and ensure compliance to avoid disruptions during future trips to Europe.
Stay updated for more information as this story develops, and make sure to prepare for your European travels ahead of the ETIAS rollout.
