Travelling to Europe soon? If you’re a UK citizen planning a trip to the Schengen Area, you’ll soon need an ETIAS travel authorisation. This new system is designed to improve border security and streamline entry into participating countries.
To avoid delays or rejection, it’s important to know exactly what’s required for your application. Below is a clear checklist to help you prepare everything in advance.
What Is ETIAS?
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is an entry requirement for visa-exempt travellers visiting certain European countries. It is not a visa but a pre-travel screening system. Once approved, it will allow you to stay for up to 90 days in a 180-day period within the Schengen Zone.
ETIAS is expected to become mandatory in mid-2025, so getting familiar with the process now can save you time later.
Key Information You’ll Need
Before you apply, make sure you have the following information ready. These details are essential for completing your etias travel authorisation online.
A Valid Passport
Your passport must be:
- Valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay
- Issued within the last 10 years
It should also include a machine-readable zone, which most modern UK passports have.
Personal Information
You will need to input:
- Your full name
- Date and place of birth
- Nationality
- Home address
- Parents’ names
This section must match the details exactly as they appear on your passport to prevent errors.
Travel Plans and Destination
ETIAS will ask for your first point of entry into the Schengen Area. You do not need to provide a full itinerary, but knowing where you plan to arrive is required.
Make sure your intended travel aligns with the 90/180 rule, which limits your stay to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Employment and Education Details
You will also be asked to supply your current occupation and possibly your education level. This helps with background checks and risk assessment.
Health and Security Questions
Applicants must answer a short set of security questions. These cover topics like:
- Past criminal convictions
- Travel to conflict zones
- Previous deportations or entry denials
Answer truthfully, as false declarations could lead to denial of authorisation.
Payment and Submission
Before your application can be processed, you’ll need to complete the payment step and provide contact details for status updates.
A Debit or Credit Card
There is a fee of €7 per application for travellers aged between 18 and 70. Minors and older adults are exempt from the charge. You must pay this fee online before your application is processed. The payment step is required to finalise submission.
A Valid Email Address
After applying, you will receive your ETIAS confirmation and status updates by email. Make sure you have access to the email address you provide. Most applications are processed within a few hours, but it is best to apply at least a few days in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Final Steps Before You Travel
Once approved, your ETIAS will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You do not need to reapply each time you travel within that period unless your personal details change. Save a copy of the confirmation email and consider printing it or storing it on your phone, just in case.
