US and UK travelers won't need ETIAS for Europe until April 2027

The EU travel authorization launches in late 2026 but remains optional for six months

US and UK travelers can continue visiting Europe without ETIAS until April 2027. The European Union confirmed that the travel authorization system will launch in the last quarter of 2026 but will remain voluntary for six months before enforcement begins.

For Americans and Britons planning trips to France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and other Schengen countries, this means visa-free travel continues unchanged through 2026 and into early 2027.

A grace period for first-time visitors will extend until October 2027, giving travelers additional time to adjust.

What is ETIAS and why does it affect US and UK travelers?

ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization for citizens of visa-exempt countries visiting the Schengen Area. It works similarly to the US ESTA or the UK ETA.

Both US and UK passport holders currently enjoy visa-free access to the Schengen Area for stays up to 90 days. Once ETIAS becomes mandatory, travelers from both countries will need to obtain authorization before boarding flights to Europe.

Applicants will complete an online form with passport details, travel plans, and background information. Most applications will be processed within minutes, though some may take up to 30 days if manual review is required.

Key details:

• Cost: €7 (free for travelers under 18 or over 70)
• Validity: 3 years or until passport expires
• Allows unlimited entries to the Schengen Area

Why ETIAS has been delayed

ETIAS has been delayed five times since its original 2021 target date. The system requires the Entry/Exit System (EES) to be fully operational first, and technical challenges across Schengen member states have pushed back both timelines.

The EES, a biometric system that records fingerprints and photographs of non-EU travelers, began a phased rollout in October 2025. The EU expects full functionality by April 2026. Only then can ETIAS launch, followed by a six-month voluntary period.

What this means for US and UK travelers

If you are planning travel to Europe in 2026, you do not need ETIAS. The system will be optional when it launches in late 2026, and enforcement will not begin until April 2027.

Once mandatory, travelers without a valid ETIAS could be denied entry to the Schengen Area. US and UK passport holders should factor this into travel plans for mid-2027 and beyond.

Learn more about ETIAS