New Europe Travel Requirements in 2023

Starting in 2023, traveling to Europe will be a bit different. In an attempt to protect and strengthen its borders, the 26 members of Europe’s Schengen Zone will require all visitors from the current 63 visa-free countries to register with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to be allowed entry into the Schengen Zone.

What does this mean for tourists from the U.S. with plans to go to Europe in 2023 and beyond? Let's take a look.

What Is ETIAS

Europe has long been one of the most popular destinations for tourists from the United States, and while these new travel requirements won’t change that, they will add an extra step for visitors to gain entry into some of the most popular destinations in the world.

ETIAS is not a visa. It is a travel authorization for visa-free visitors (i.e. visitors traveling for leisure or business purposes for up to 90 days). The ETIAS will pre-screen travelers who do not need a Schengen visa. While some information will still need to be collected, it will be significantly less than what’s required for a visa application.

The countries that will require ETIAS registration are: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. The micro-states of San Marino, Vatican City, and Monaco will also require registration.

Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Cyprus, which are currently in the process of becoming Schengen countries, will require ETIAS registration once they become Schengen members.

ETIAS Travel Requirements

To apply for the ETIAS, you’ll need a valid passport and email address, Travelers between 18 and 70 will need a debit or credit card to pay for the non-refundable service fee. The application is quick and shouldn’t take you much time.

After you fill out the required ETIAS information in the application—which includes data from your passport as well as health and security questions—your application will be immediately processed. You’ll receive an email confirming whether your ETIAS application has been approved or not, typically within 96 hours. In some instances, applications may take up to four weeks to process, if additional documentation is needed.

Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, at which point you’ll need to reapply.

Stay Up to Date on Changes to Immigration

CIBTvisas is constantly tracking changes to immigration rules and laws. As changes happen our team will stay up to date, communicating all information to you. We are not only here to answer questions regarding Visas, or walk alongside you during your Visa Journey or Passport Renewal process, but to help you effectively navigate travel ordinances. With over 70 offices in 25 countries, we’re everywhere you need to be.