Will I Need an ETIAS as a US Citizen?

With international travel growing as COVID restrictions wane, CIBTvisas wants to make sure you are ready for travel to Europe. One big change slated to begin on January 1, 2023, is the launch of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), an electronic document required for entry into much of Europe, beginning next year.

Currently, U.S. citizens can freely enter the Schengen Zone (an area of 26 countries covering much of Europe) for up to 90 days for business and/or tourism purposes. End of 2023, all U.S. citizens traveling to the 26 Schengen Zone countries will need to register with ETIAS or will risk being denied entry.

Our team is here to give you everything you need to know about ETIAS and travel requirements for Americans heading to Europe in 2023.

Why Is The Process Changing?

For some time, the European Union (EU) has sought to create a more secure experience in its border operations. The solution is ETIAS. The European Union sees this change as being not only safer but more productive, by relaxing entry procedures and diminishing wait times.

ETIAS was actually supposed to come into effect in 2021. There were delays in the adoption of the ETIAS Regulation, along with the development of the Entry/Exit System (EES), needed to implement ETIAS at the border. The EES is an electronic system that keeps track of visitors as they cross borders. It is now scheduled for launch at the end of 2023.

Does ETIAS Affect My Travel Experience?

As a U.S. citizen, it’s important to understand the implications of ETIAS on your upcoming travel. First, this new process is not a visa. ETIAS is a travel authorization waiver for visa-free visitors, visitors who include U.S. citizens. In fact, it will be mandatory for all countries currently in the Schengen Zone, or who currently have visa-free access to the Zone, which includes over 60 countries. More countries may be added to the ETIAS system in the future, so travelers should keep this in mind as they make future plans.

Once an ETIAS is granted, it is valid for up to three years, or until your current passport expires, whichever occurs first. European countries that are not part of the Schengen Zone, will continue to have their own entry and stay requirements that must be observed by travelers.

Next Steps

CIBTvisas is monitoring updates regarding ETIAS. As developments for U.S. citizens continue to evolve, our team will communicate all information. We are here not only 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 as they develop. Let’s stay connected throughout these changes together!