Alongside restrictions on freedom of movement within the EU since Brexit, many UK citizens will also face the need for formal authorisation to enter the Schengen Area for short term travel.

ETIAS

Most UK nationals entering the EU for up to 90 days will need to be approval through the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Exempt citizens include those who hold dual nationality status with an EU country or pre-existing residency rights granted as part of the Brexit withdrawal agreement. All stays beyond 90 days require compliance with the appropriate visa or residency credentials.

The application for ETIAS will be an online-only process, involving submission of personal details, passport data, and health/security details. The fee has been revised a number of times since the concept was first announced. Currently, it is expected to be 20 euros, with no charges in regard to minors or for those over 70 years of age. Successful ETIAS submission covers multiple trips within the standard limits for movement of non-EU individuals within the Schengen Area. Approved applications last three years, or until passport expiry if earlier.

DELAY TO IMPLEMENTATION AND APPROXIMATE TIMESCALES

The implementation of ETIAS has been delayed due to the need for coordination alongside other EU border and customs initiatives. These include the full establishment of the Entry/Exit System (EES). This is a digital approach to border efficiency and security, entailing biometric data collection from travellers and a move away from traditional passport stamps. EES has been a rate limiting factor in the introduction of ETIAS. Official EES commencement is set for October 2025, although some points of entry have already started the process of collecting biometrics. EES is expected to be fully implemented by 10 April 2026.

At the time of writing, the official website of the European Union has yet to announce a start date for ETIAS. It is likely that ETIAS will have a phased introduction (initially on a voluntary basis) in the latter part of 2026. The aim is to encourage individuals to apply as early as possible; partly to lessen the strain on resources connected with the new system, and to allow for some ETIAS submissions that may take up to one month to process (most are expected to be approved immediately).

FURTHER INFORMATION

Some countries have hinted that on the current timetable, mandatory ETIAS application is likely to come into force by April 2027. However, travellers are advised to follow regular updates closely at the ETIAS homepage of the official European Union website.