ETIAS for UK Citizens: The European Travel Authorization

From 2025, UK nationals will require an ETIAS visa waiver to travel through Europe. Find out all you need to know about the ETIAS in this article.

With some of the most picturesque countries in the Northern Hemisphere, the Schengen area has been the go-to destination for many UK citizens for years. Thus, when Brexit resulted in revised rules and restrictions on their travel, many were extremely worried.

Luckily, the EU is currently developing plans to ensure they can still enjoy vacations and short trips to the area without too much hassle. The new ETIAS system promises safer and easier travel throughout the Schengen zone.

What is the ETIAS?

The ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System. It's a completely electronic system aiming to keep track of visitors from countries who are currently visa-exempt to enter the Schengen Zone.

It closely resembles the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The process of introducing ETIAS in the European Union started in 2016. The system is set to be officially launched in 2025.

ETIAS will handle detailed security checks of applicants and determine if they can enter EU countries. The system will also gather, track, and update the necessary information of visitors to determine if it's safe for them to enter Schengen countries. ETIAS will allow you to visit and move freely between EU countries without posing a security risk for the countries.

It'll be available for business, tourism visitors, and for people transiting or visiting Schengen countries for medical reasons. With an approved ETIAS, you can participate in short courses, training, or business meetings, staying up to 90 days in the Schengen Area. However, you aren't allowed to enroll in long-term studies, internships, or work without a proper visa or travel documents.

Differences between the ETIAS and the Schengen visa

The European Commission's ETIAS travel authorization system attempts to protect and strengthen border control. It aims to identify possible threats or risks associated with visitors traveling to any of the Schengen area countries.

In contrast, a Schengen visa is a standard requirement to travel to any of the 27 member states of the Schengen area. The visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days.

Do I need an ETIAS if I have a long-term Schengen visa?

If you have a valid long-term visa from an EU Member State to enter the Schengen area, it's unnecessary to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization.

When will ETIAS start for UK Citizens?

The rules for British citizens planning to travel to European countries changed after Brexit. Many people were concerned if they would still be able to explore the EU freely. Things became even more stressful when the EU confirmed the launch of the ETIAS visa waiver in 2025.

Luckily, the European Commission is making some concessions for British citizens regarding what travel documents they will need to enter the Schengen Zone. According to the ETIAS plan, British passport holders will still have some flexibility and freedom if they abide by new rules and regulations.

Why will British citizens require ETIAS?

After Brexit, it was decided that British passport holders wouldn't need a visa to visit countries in the Schengen Area for short-term visits. This means the UK is part of the visa-exempt third countries. Thus, its citizens don't have visa requirements.

However, while they won't need a visa, those traveling for short periods for business, tourism, or transiting in the EU will have to apply for a visa waiver. British citizens planning to work in the EU permanently or for long periods of time will still need to check the visa requirements of the specific country.

Everyone, including minors, must get travel authorization from ETIAS before traveling to a Schengen area member country, or entry will be denied.

Validity of the ETIAS for British citizens

A major change that occurred after Brexit was the length of time British visitors can remain in the Schengen area without a visa. British passport holders may now only stay in the Schengen Area for up to three months without a visa. To stay longer, you must apply for a visa or other necessary travel permits at your nearest embassy for that specific country.

ETIAS Application for UK Citizens: Online Authorization

From 2025, British passport holders will be able to apply for ETIAS authorization online before traveling to any of the ETIAS countries. This includes travelers going to Spain, Italy, and France.

What documents do you need to apply?

ETIAS application is not a visa application process, and as a result, there are minimal requirements. The applicant needs:

• Valid UK passport
• Credit or debit card to pay the ETIAS fees and processing fee

Applying for ETIAS with a criminal record

An applicant may still apply for an ETIAS authorization with a criminal record. Make sure to explain your conviction in your ETIAS application. If you are denied ETIAS approval or your application is rejected, appeal to the Member State who denied the application.

ETIAS Visa Cost for UK Citizens

The European Union Commission approved proposed revisions to the Schengen visa code in 2019. The costs of the ETIAS authorization will depend on the processing time you prefer. We offer the following:

• Standard Processing time: Our standard option is also the most affordable.
• Rush Processing time: If you prefer to get your ETIAS application processed a bit faster than the standard option, for an extra fee.
• Super Rush Processing time: In case you are in a rush, choose this option for an express fee.

Other travel requirements for UK Citizens

Please note that besides ETIAS, there are other rules for UK travelers to keep in mind when visiting Europe. Keep up to date with the UK travel requirements for Europe, including:

• Passport validity
• Receiving healthcare in Europe,
• Driving in European countries
• Mobile roaming charges after Brexit

Also, remember to check COVID-19 entry requirements, as they change depending on the country you want to visit. To check the specific requirements for the country you are traveling to, use the iVisa checker tool.

If you're all set to travel and ready to get your ETIAS via the iVisa ETIAS application.

Who can I speak to if I have more questions?

If you need assistance or would like to chat with one of our experts about your application, entry rules, or any travel documents, don't hesitate to get in touch with our customer service team or via email at [email protected].