Will ETIAS Replace Schengen Visas?: Your ETIAS Questions Answered

With the recent introduction of ETIAS and the changing landscape of European travel, travelers all over the globe have questions about what it means for Schengen visas and their upcoming travel plans.

Understanding the difference between ETIAS and Schengen visas is helpful when it comes to a smooth and hassle-free trip abroad. This article will break down the key aspects of ETIAS and Schengen visas, helping you feel confident when planning your next trip.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS, short for European Travel Information and Authorization System, is a travel authorization program designed for non-EU visa-exempt citizens traveling to countries within the Schengen area and Cyprus.

This includes Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, The Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. It also includes Cyprus, which isn’t currently a member of the Schengen area.

ETIAS was introduced by the European Union to enhance security across the entire Schengen area, helping to maintain the integrity of the zone by prioritizing safety for everyone who enters.

How does ETIAS work?

Some travelers will need to obtain ETIAS authorization before traveling to the Schengen area from 2025 onward.

ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization. At its core, ETIAS is permission to enter the Schengen area.

In fact, the introduction of ETIAS doesn’t change anything about Schengen visas. Travelers who needed Schengen visas to enter the area will still need Schengen visas moving forward.

Citizens from countries that didn’t require a Schengen visa previously, still won’t need Schengen visas – they will, however, need ETIAS.

What is a Schengen visa?

With the introduction of ETIAS, the Schengen visa isn’t changing.

A Schengen visa is a type of visa that allows travelers to enter and move freely within the Schengen zone, which comprises 29 European countries. Moving freely through the Schengen area means that visitors can travel from one Schengen country to another without needing to pass through border control or obtain additional visas.

Key differences between ETIAS and the Schengen visa

• Functionality: ETIAS is not a visa. ETIAS is a travel authorization that allows citizens from visa-exempt countries to enter the Schengen area. A Schengen visa allows citizens from non-visa-exempt countries to enter the Schengen area, or for stays longer than 90 days.
• Eligibility: ETIAS is for citizens of visa-exempt countries, while a Schengen visa is required for citizens of countries that do not have a visa exemption. Travelers from visa-exempt countries may also apply for a Schengen visa for long-stays to work, or to study.
• Application process: ETIAS applications are quick and online, while Schengen visa applications involve more documentation and an in-person appointment at a visa center, consulate or embassy. Be aware, however, that the EU is currently working to digitize the visa application process through a platform called EU VAP. This system hasn’t been launched yet, but once it does, the Schengen visa application process will change.

Will ETIAS replace Schengen visas?

No, ETIAS will not replace Schengen visas. Instead, it will coexist with the Schengen visa system.

If you are a citizen of a visa-exempt country (like the US), you will need to obtain ETIAS to travel to the Schengen area. However, if you are from a non-visa-exempt country (such as India or China), you will still need to apply for a Schengen visa (and you won’t need ETIAS).

Do I need ETIAS If I have a Schengen visa?

No. If you have a valid Schengen visa, you will not need to apply for ETIAS. The ETIAS requirement applies solely to travelers from visa-exempt countries (such as the US and UK). Your Schengen visa remains valid for entry and travel within the Schengen area as long as it hasn't expired.

Do I need ETIAS in 2024?

No. While ETIAS was originally set to start in 2024, the launch date was pushed to 2025. From 2025 on, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need ETIAS authorization to enter any of the Schengen area countries (such as France, Italy, and Portugal).

Will US citizens need ETIAS?

Yes, US citizens will need to apply for ETIAS when traveling to the Schengen area after the system becomes operational in 2025. This new requirement will affect all US travelers, whether they’re visiting a country in the Schengen zone for 5 days or for 65 days.

If US citizens want to stay in the Schengen area longer than 90 days (longer stays, such as for work or study) they will need to apply for a Schengen visa, not ETIAS. If you're obtaining a Schengen visa for your travels, you won't need to apply for ETIAS. Think of it as an "either/or."

When does ETIAS start?

ETIAS is set to launch in 2025. While the exact date is yet to be confirmed, travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest updates and prepare for the changes ahead.

Which countries need ETIAS?

ETIAS will apply to travelers from visa-exempt countries, which include:

• United States
• Canada
• Australia
• New Zealand
• United Kingdom

Complete list of citizens who will need to apply for ETIAS:
Albania, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, El Salvador, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Kosovo, Macao, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Montenegro, New Zealand, Nicaragua, North Macedonia, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Samoa, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan, Timor-Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Venezuela

If you are a citizen of one of these nations, you will need ETIAS authorization to enter the Schengen area for all trips under 90 days in duration.

How much does ETIAS cost for Americans?

The ETIAS application fee will be €7 for travelers aged 18 and older. The application will be free for minors under the age of 18 and those over the age of 70.

Keep in mind that regardless of the outcome, ETIAS fees are non-refundable.

Do US citizens need a visa for Europe in 2024?

No. As long as it's for leisure or business and your trip does not exceed 90 days, US citizens will not need a visa to travel to the Schengen area or Cyprus in 2024, or 2025. However, once operational, they must ensure that their travel plans comply with the conditions of ETIAS.

If US citizens are planning to stay in the Schengen area for longer than 90 days, or to work or study, they will need to apply for the appropriate Schengen visa.

Key takeaways: ETIAS vs the Schengen visa

• ETIAS will not replace the Schengen visa. The systems will co-exist.
• ETIAS is not a visa, it is a travel authorization that permits visa-exempt travelers to enter the Schengen area.
• ETIAS is set to launch in 2025.
• Schengen visas are still required for citizens of non-visa-exempt countries and allow longer stays. ETIAS doesn’t change this.
• US citizens will need ETIAS authorization for travel to the Schengen area starting in 2025.
• The application process for ETIAS is quick and can be completed online, costing €7 (non-refundable).
• Travelers from visa-exempt countries must apply for ETIAS before their trips, while those with valid Schengen visas do not need to apply.
• The Schengen visa process remains the same, but will change in the coming years with the introduction of EU VAP.