Your ETIAS Application: What to Know Before Applying

If you're planning to visit Europe, you may have heard about ETIAS – short for the European Travel Information and Authorization System. This new system is designed to strengthen the security of European borders, and from 2025 on, visitors from visa-exempt countries will need an ETIAS to enter the Schengen area.

But what exactly is ETIAS? Do you need to apply? How do you apply, and when should you start the process?

In this guide, we’ll answer all of these questions and walk you through everything you need to know about the ETIAS online application: how it affects U.S. citizens, and key information for travelers to Spain, France, Italy, and other countries in the Schengen zone!

What Is ETIAS?

ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization system that applies to citizens from visa-exempt countries who wish to visit Schengen area countries for short stays (up to 90 days).

ETIAS is not a visa – it’s a travel authorization. This simple authorization process ensures travelers do not pose security, health, or immigration risks before entering the Schengen zone. The system is similar to the ESTA required for entering the United States.

Do US citizens need ETIAS?

Yes, US citizens traveling to France, Italy, or any other country in the Schengen zone will need to apply for ETIAS from 2025 on. If you’re a US passport holder and are planning to visit any Schengen country – including popular destinations like Spain, the Netherlands, and Germany – you will need an approved ETIAS before your departure (unless you are traveling on a Schengen visa).

How to apply for ETIAS

The process to apply for ETIAS will be very straightforward and entirely online. The application typically takes about 10-20 minutes to complete and there is a small fee.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for ETIAS:

1. Gather the required documents

There are a few things you’ll need for your ETIAS application. They are:

• A valid passport: You’ll need to provide your passport number.
• An email address: You’ll need a working email address to receive your ETIAS authorization (ETIAS is paperless!)
• A debit/credit card: There’s a small fee (€7) for processing your ETIAS application, which you will be required to pay via credit or debit card online

2. Visit the official ETIAS website

To begin, go to the official ETIAS site.

3. Complete the online ETIAS form

The ETIAS online application form will ask for a few personal details, including:

• Full name
• Passport information
• Birth date
• Date and place of birth
• Your parents’ first name(s)
• Phone number and home address

Additionally, you’ll answer a few questions such as your highest level of education, occupation, and details about past criminal convictions.

4. Review and submit your ETIAS application

Before submitting, review your application carefully to ensure all of the information that you provided is accurate. When ready, submit your application and pay the 7 euro application fee. This fee can be paid with a credit or debit card.

5. Receive your ETIAS authorization!

Most applications are processed within minutes, but in some cases, it may take up to 30 days for approval. Your approved ETIAS will be sent to you via email and linked electronically to your passport.

There’s also no need to print anything (because your authorization will be automatically linked to your passport)!

If your ETIAS is denied, you will receive an email detailing the reason(s) for refusal. You'll also receive instructions on how to appeal the decision if you believe it was unjustly made.

How early should you apply for ETIAS?

It’s recommended that you apply for ETIAS at least 96 hours before your departure to Europe.

However, to avoid last-minute issues and delays, it’s a good idea to start the process as soon as your travel plans are confirmed. For some travelers, the process could take longer, so applying a few weeks in advance is a safer bet.

The EU recommends that travelers apply for ETIAS before booking plane tickets or hotels.

While most ETIAS approvals happen within minutes, some applications might require additional processing time – and you won’t be able to board your flight/enter your destination without ETIAS approval.

How do I apply for ETIAS in Spain?

The application process for ETIAS for Spain is the same as for any other Schengen country. You will apply online. During the application, you will be asked to indicate which Schengen country you’ll be visiting. At this point, you can select Spain. Once approved, your ETIAS will be automatically linked to your passport!

ETIAS application processing time

Once submitted, the majority of ETIAS applications are processed almost immediately, with approval typically sent within minutes, but also can take up to 96 hours.

However, in certain cases, processing may take longer if additional information is needed or if the application is flagged for further security checks, which can take up to 30 days.

Because of that, applying well in advance of your travel date is highly recommended.

How long is ETIAS valid for?

Once approved, an ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

This means you can make multiple trips to Europe during this period without having to apply for ETIAS again. If your passport expires during this time, you’ll need to apply for a new ETIAS after receiving your new passport.

To reapply, simply follow the same steps you did the first time you applied.

Keep in mind that ETIAS is not a visa and does not allow you to stay in the Schengen area for as long as you want if you’re from a visa-exempt country. Trips must be a maximum of 90 days (within a 180-day period). If you want to stay in the Schengen area for more than 90 days, you'll need to apply for a visa.

ETIAS vs visa: What’s the difference?

ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization. Some countries have visa-waiver agreements with the Schengen zone (such as the US, Canada, the UK, and others), which means their citizens can travel to the Schengen area without a visa. This is still true, but as an added layer of security, ETIAS is being introduced.

If you plan to stay in Europe for longer than 90 days or purposes such as work or study, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa from the country you intend to travel to (not ETIAS).

FAQs About ETIAS

Is ETIAS mandatory for all travelers to the Schengen area?

No, ETIAS is only mandatory for citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling to the Schengen area. This includes citizens of the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, Japan, and more. If you’re not from a visa-exempt country (such as India, China, Russia, etc.), you do not need ETIAS, but you will still need a Schengen visa. Additionally, if you are a citizen of a Schengen country, you also do not need ETIAS.

The only exception is for individuals with valid Schengen visas/passports. If you currently hold a Schengen visa, you do not need to apply for ETIAS. Think of it as an “either-or” situation.

How much does ETIAS cost?

The ETIAS application fee is €7 for applicants over 18. It is free for travelers under the age of 18 and over 70. This fee must be paid online.

What if my ETIAS application is denied?

If your application is denied, you will be given the reason(s) for its refusal, and you can appeal the decision or reapply if the issue can be resolved. This information will be sent to you via email.

With this new requirement, ETIAS approval will be mandatory, so you won’t be able to travel without it, unfortunately.

Can I travel to multiple European countries with ETIAS?

While ETIAS approval does permit you to travel to Schengen countries (and Cyprus), it does not guarantee entry into other European countries. The ultimate decision lies with the border guards.

Additional information about ETIAS

Applying for ETIAS is a simple and streamlined process designed to make your travels to Europe smoother and more secure. Whether you're a US citizen planning a vacation to Spain or exploring the historic sites of France and Italy, understanding the ETIAS online application process is essential.

Be sure to apply early and you’ll be well on your way to enjoying your European adventure.

For more information, check the European Commission’s ETIAS FAQ page.

ETIAS: Key Information

• ETIAS is mandatory for US citizens, from 2025 on, and other visa-exempt travelers (UK, Canada, etc.) visiting the Schengen area for short stays (up to 90 days) starting in 2025.
• The ETIAS application is fully online and typically takes 10-20 minutes to complete. You’ll need a valid passport, email address, and a debit/credit card for the small fee.
• Apply well before your departure, though it’s best to apply as soon as your travel plans are confirmed to avoid delays.
• Usually, approval is given in a couple of minutes, but it can take up to 96 hours, or even 30 days in specific cases.
• An approved ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, allowing multiple trips to the Schengen area during this time.
• The ETIAS application fee is €7 for travelers over 18, while it is free for minors and those over 70.
• ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization.
• Citizens of India, Russia, China, and other countries that are not visa-exempt do not need to apply for ETIAS. You will need to apply for a Schengen visa.
• If you hold a valid Schengen visa, you do not need to apply for ETIAS.
• ETIAS approval is automatically linked to your passport.