ETIAS: Everything UK Citizens Need to Know

In recent years, travel between the United Kingdom and Europe has undergone significant changes due to Brexit. One noteworthy shift is the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). 

If you're wondering how ETIAS will affect travel for UK citizens, especially in light of Brexit, you're in the right place. 

In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about ETIAS, how it impacts travel for UK citizens, and what changes to expect in 2025 and beyond.

What is ETIAS and do UK citizens need it?

ETIAS, or the European Travel Information and Authorization System, is an electronic system introduced by the European Union to enhance security and monitor visitors entering the Schengen area who do not need a visa. 

While not a visa, ETIAS functions similarly by requiring travelers to register before entering Schengen zone countries.

Will UK citizens need ETIAS after Brexit?

Yes, UK citizens need to apply for ETIAS if they wish to travel to any of the Schengen area countries after it is launched. The introduction of ETIAS is one of the changes resulting from Brexit, as the UK is no longer a part of the European Union and British citizens have lost the freedom of movement they once enjoyed.

ETIAS is expected to launch in 2025, and all UK citizens traveling to Schengen countries will need to apply for and obtain an ETIAS authorization. Thankfully, the process is straightforward and 100% digital, aimed at improving both security and ease of travel for short stays in the Schengen area.

Traveling to the Schengen zone after Brexit

Before Brexit, UK citizens could freely travel to and live in many European countries without requiring a visa. However, since the UK left the EU, new rules have come into play. 

Today, UK citizens can only stay in Schengen area countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business purposes. ETIAS will permit these short stays by offering a streamlined travel authorization system.

For those wondering, "Do UK citizens need a visa for Europe in 2024?" – the answer is no, not in 2024. However, the system is set to roll out sometime in 2025 – then ETIAS will be mandatory.

Do I need ETIAS if I have a Schengen visa?

No, if you already have a valid Schengen visa, you won't need ETIAS. 

ETIAS is specifically for visa-exempt travelers, like UK citizens who plan to stay in Schengen countries for up to 90 days for tourism, business, medical, or transit purposes. Even if you’re visa-exempt for stays up to 90 days, if you do hold a visa (for whatever reason), you do not need ETIAS approval. When it comes to Schengen visas and ETIAS, it's one or the other.

How do UK citizens apply for ETIAS?

As of 2025, the ETIAS authorization process will be entirely online. If you’re a UK citizen, here are the steps for applying for your ETIAS once the site is operational (sometime in 2025).

• Complete the application: Fill out an online form with the necessary personal information, passport details, travel plans, etc.
• Submit your application: Once completed, you’ll submit your form electronically.
• Pay the fee: There’s a small fee (7 euros) involved in the application process. You can pay this using a credit or debit card.
• Wait for approval: Most applications will be processed within minutes, but in some cases, approval may take up to 30 days, so make sure to plan accordingly. 

How much does ETIAS cost for UK citizens?

The cost for ETIAS will be €7 for adults. This fee is waived for travelers under the age of 18 and over the age of 70. This makes the process affordable compared to the cost of a traditional visa.

How long does it take to get ETIAS approval?

In most cases, the ETIAS approval process will be almost immediate, with many applicants receiving authorization via email within minutes.

However, travelers are encouraged to apply well in advance as authorization can take up to 30 days. While this is uncommon, it’s best to apply in advance just in case. 

What happens if my ETIAS is denied?

If your ETIAS application is denied, you will receive an email detailing the reason(s) for the refusal. You can appeal a denied ETIAS if you feel the decision was unjustly made. 

If the denial is upheld, you can still apply for a traditional visa to visit the Schengen zone.

How does ETIAS work for UK citizens?

Once your ETIAS is approved, it will be electronically linked to your passport. This means that when you enter a Schengen area country, your travel authorization will be automatically checked by border officials (or at the digital Entry/Exit System, EES) when your passport is scanned. You won’t need to carry any additional documents beyond your passport and ETIAS approval.

The authorization will be valid for three years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. During this time, you can travel multiple times to Schengen countries, provided each stay does not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.

Do I need ETIAS insurance?

While travel insurance is not required for obtaining ETIAS, it’s strongly recommended. ETIAS won’t cover any potential medical costs, so having comprehensive travel insurance will ensure you're covered in case of emergencies while abroad. 

Many Schengen countries have high medical costs, so it’s best to be prepared.

Will the UK require ETIAS?

ETIAS is not required for travel to the UK. The United Kingdom has implemented its own electronic travel authorization (ETA) system for visitors. Much like ETIAS, this system will help screen visitors from visa-exempt countries, including US citizens, starting in 2025. This raises the question, "Do US citizens need ETA for the UK in 2025?" – and the answer is yes, yes they will.

ETIAS highlights for UK citizens

Here’s a quick overview of the key points UK citizens need to know about ETIAS:

• ETIAS is expected to be implemented in 2025.
• UK citizens traveling to Schengen area countries need ETIAS if they don’t hold a valid Schengen visa.
• ETIAS is a simple online application.
• The ETIAS fee is €7 for adults, free for those under 18 or over 70.
• ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
• ETIAS is for short-term stays; longer visits may require a visa (in which case, ETIAS won’t be required).
• ETIAS insurance isn’t mandatory but is highly recommended.