ETIAS Requirements for British Citizens
What Does ETIAS Mean for the UK Citizens?
From 2025, the EU will launch the ETIAS System, requiring British citizens to have valid ETIAS authorization upon arrival at the EU/Schengen Border.
The authorization will be valid for three years and will enable you to visit all the EU/Schengen Area states for up to three months per visit for three years.
ETIAS Mission
By launching the ETIAS system, the EU intends to increase the Union’s threat-curbing capabilities and provide a smooth travelling experience to inbound visitors.
Visa Exempt Countries
Only those citizens of the 58 countries that had visa-free travel arrangements with the EU prior to 2025 are eligible for ETIAS authorization.
ETIAS for Short-Term Visits
ETIAS is a pre-issued digital travel permit that allows you to travel to Europe for short-term business, medical, or leisure purposes.
ETIAS for Kids and Minors
ETIAS authorization must be obtained by minors and children before they travel to Europe. It should be done by parents or legal guardians.
Citizens who will need ETIAS
Residents of more than 60 states (including Great Britain) will be required to complete a digital screening of the approved ETIAS form to enter Schengen states once ETIAS is launched by the end of 2022. From 2023 onwards, three types of countries will be required to have ETIAS:
For Short visits
British Visitors will require the ETIAS visa waiver for various reasons, not only short journeys. For business, tourism, health, or transit needs, you’ll need an ETIAS.
Travelers Under Legal Age for non-EU Countries
Children must also register for ETIAS under the new method. A parent or legal guardian must complete the minor’s application.
Visa Exempt Countries
For 60 non-EU countries, including the United Kingdom, Argentina, the United States, and Canada, the new Visa Waiver system will replace the previous one.
ETIAS Countries
22 EU/Schengen member countries:
Austria- Belgium
- Luxembourg
- Netherlands
- Germany
- France
- Spain
- Portugal
- Sweden
- Finland
- Denmark
- Lithuania
- Latvia
- Estonia
- Poland
- Slovakia
- Hungary
- Slovenia
- Italy
- Greece
- Czech Republic
- Malta
ETIAS Countries
Non-EU/Schengen member countries:
- Liechtenstein
- Iceland
- Norway
- Switzerland
European Microstates with Open Borders:
- San Marino
- Monaco
- Vatican City
Non-Schengen/EU member countries:
- Romania
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
How to Apply for ETIAS from the United Kingdom?
ETIAS authorization can be applied for in less than 15 minutes. You will need to fill out the ETIAS application, upload your scan of your biometric passport and submit it after paying for the fee.
Your information will be cross-checked with other security databases such as Interpol, Europol and SIS to ensure maximum security.
Other Documents and Requirements
ETIAS is a vital prerequisite to admission within the EU/Schengen Area. However, border control officers might still ask for additional documentation, such as: Medical Insurance, Round trip ticket, or sufficient funds for the trip.
