- Travel Tips
As we continue to navigate the evolving landscape of international travel, another significant change is on the horizon. Starting in the first half of 2025,
Last time we looked at Real ID. Another major change to travel is the introduction of ETIAS. This will affect us travelers to Europe beginning in the second half of 2026.
Here’s what you need to know about ETIAS.
UPDATE 2026
If you’re heading to Europe in 2026, here’s the good news: you almost certainly don’t need ETIAS for that trip yet. ETIAS — the EU’s new travel authorization for visa-exempt visitors like us — is now set to launch in the last quarter of 2026, and it won’t be required until a transition period wraps up sometime in 2027. When it does kick in, it’s a quick online form, costs €20, and stays valid for three years. It is not a visa, and there’s nothing to apply for today (if a website tells you otherwise, close the tab — it’s a scam). Here’s what it is, who needs it, and how to be ready.
ETIAS is a travel authorization that will be an entry requirement for Visa-exempt national travelers (60 countries including the U.S., Canada, and Mexico) traveling to 30 European countries. Travelers will need this to enter these European countries for short-term stays- up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Simply put, if you’re traveling to any of these European countries in the short term, you must have ETIAS authorization.
There are exceptions, but for the most part, most of us in the Sisterhood will need authorization. Find out more here.
You will still need a passport and/or other required travel documents.
Once approved, ETIAS is valid for three years, or until your passport expires. This means if you have to renew or get another passport for whatever reason, you must reapply for a new ETIAS.
As of the publication of this post, you cannot yet apply. The applications will be open in the second half of 2026, so be sure and keep a look out for that. Once the application process is open, apply well in advance of your trip. It is suggested before you buy your tickets and book your hotel. If you’re traveling with The Sisterhood, we’ll advise you by email as soon as we know that the application process has begun.
This must be done online at the official European Union website
(https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en). This is the only place you can apply, so be sure and double-check that you’re on the official website. I attended a travel conference this past Spring and the director emphasized that it must be the official website during an information session on this new requirement.
Note: Your current passport must be valid for more than three months and less than 10 years.
The following is the information you will need.
When you fill out your passport information, it must be exactly like it is on your passport, so be sure you are using the same name, address, 0 for numbers and not ‘o’s” (you’d be surprised how much this happens). Once approved your ETIAS is directly linked to your passport/travel documents, so you will not need a separate document. Take your time when you do this because if you make a mistake, you need to either fill out another application or request a correction. A correction request can take up to 30 days to process. If you don’t catch the mistake, you will be denied entry.
The cost is only 20 euros. You are exempt from the cost if you are under 18 or over 70. There are also a couple of other cost exemptions. Family members of EU citizens and non-EU nationals who have the right to move freely throughout the European Union.
Most applications are approved within minutes, but some may take longer (up to four days), and if you are required to submit more information or be asked for an interview, it could take 14-30 days.
Keep your eyes out for emails for updates and approval. You will receive a number when you are approved. Keep that number for reference.
That’s it in a nutshell. For the vast majority of us, this should be a fast and painless process. I love that the information is linked to your passport, so there’s no added documentation to carry when you travel. We just have to remember change is inevitable. We’ve got this my fellow traveling sisters!
For all the information and answers to your questions, go to the EU website.
Q: Do I need ETIAS for my 2026 trip to Europe?
A: Most likely not yet. ETIAS is scheduled to launch in the last quarter of 2026 and will not be mandatory until a transition period ends, expected in 2027. Check the official EU travel site before you go.
Q: When does ETIAS start?
A: The European Union has confirmed a launch in the last quarter of 2026 (October to December), with a transition period before it becomes mandatory.
Q: How much does ETIAS cost?
A: The fee is 20 euros. Travelers under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the fee.
Q: How long is ETIAS valid?
A: An approved ETIAS is valid for three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Q: Is ETIAS a visa?
A: No. ETIAS is a travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers, similar to the U.S. ESTA. You apply online and most approvals are processed quickly.
Q: What is EES, and is it the same as ETIAS?
A: No. EES, the Entry/Exit System, is a separate biometric system that records entries and exits with facial images and fingerprints instead of passport stamps. It began rolling out in April 2026.
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