ETIAS for Americans

Complete ETIAS guide for United States citizens traveling to Europe

Quick Facts

Americans will need ETIAS authorization to visit Europe's Schengen Area from Q4 2026. It costs €20, is valid for 3 years, and most applications are approved in minutes.

Cost €20

Validity 3 years

Processing Minutes

Launch Q4 2026

What Americans Need to Know About ETIAS

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is a new pre-screening system for visa-exempt travelers visiting Europe's Schengen Area. As American citizens, you'll need to apply for ETIAS online before traveling to any of the 30 Schengen countries.

The good news: ETIAS is quick, affordable, and valid for multiple trips over 3 years. Most applications are approved within minutes.

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ETIAS Cost €20

📅

Valid For 3 years

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Processing Minutes

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Covers 30 countries

How Americans Apply for ETIAS

1

Visit the official portal

Go to travel-europe.europa.eu/etias when the portal opens (expected Summer 2026).
2

Complete the application

Provide your United States passport details, travel plans, and answer security questions.
3

Pay €20

Free for travelers under 18 or over 70. Payment by credit or debit card.
4

Receive approval

Most approved within minutes. ETIAS is electronically linked to your passport.

Beware of Scam Sites

The only official ETIAS website ends in .europa.eu. Any site charging more than €20 is unofficial.

ETIAS Guides

How to Apply

Step-by-step ETIAS application guide

Cost & Fees

€20 for adults, exemptions for children & seniors

Requirements

Eligibility criteria and what you need

Processing Time

Minutes for most, up to 30 days for some

Popular Destinations

France Italy Spain Germany Greece Netherlands

See all destinations

ETIAS FAQs for Americans

When do Americans need ETIAS?

ETIAS is expected to launch Q4 2026. There will be a 6-month transitional period before it becomes mandatory.

How much does ETIAS cost for Americans?

€20 for adults 18-70. Free for those under 18 or over 70.

How long is ETIAS valid for United States passport holders?

3 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Multiple entries allowed.

Which countries can Americans visit with ETIAS?

All 30 Schengen Area countries, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and others.

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