The European Commission has announced an important update regarding the cost of ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), the travel authorization system for citizens of third countries exempt from visa requirements. The fee for obtaining authorization, initially set at €7, will instead be fixed at €20.
According to Brussels, the increase takes into account inflation, system management and maintenance costs, and the desire to align fees with those applied by other countries that have similar procedures, such as the United States and the United Kingdom.
How ETIAS Works
ETIAS is designed to facilitate entry into 30 European countries for non-EU travelers who do not require a visa, while ensuring higher security standards. Before departure, applicants must complete an online form, providing personal and travel-related information. In most cases, the response will arrive within minutes thanks to automated processing of the application.
Who Pays and Who Is Exempt
The €20 fee will be required from travelers between the ages of 18 and 70. Minors and those over 70 will be exempt from payment.
Entry into Force
The fee revision will be subject to a two-month review period by the European Parliament and the Council, which can be extended only once. The new provisions will take effect when ETIAS becomes operational, currently scheduled for the last quarter of 2026.
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