ETIAS set to make European travel safer & more streamlined

The European Travel Information and Authorization System, better known as ETIAS, is making waves in the world of travel with its new digital travel authorisation system and is set to be a game-changer for anyone wanting to discover everything that Europe has to offer. This new travel requirement, starting in 2024, has been introduced by the European Union with the aim of enhancing security while simplifying the process for travellers and we're here to provide you with all the details you need to know.

So, what does this mean for you?

If you're from any of the following countries:

And you’re planning to explore any of these countries:

You’ll need to obtain ETIAS authorization for short-term trips - up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

If you're a UK national benefitting from the Withdrawal Agreement, ETIAS isn't mandatory as long as you have the necessary documents to confirm your status. However, for UK citizens without residency in Portugal, Non-Habitual Resident status, or one of the extended stay visas (more information on these visa options here,) securing an ETIAS is a must before indulging in the sun, cuisine, beaches, and cultural treasures of Portugal.

ETIAS will enable you to visit multiple European countries or keep coming back to your favourite Algarve hot spots, all under a single travel authorization. Eligible travellers can apply for their ETIAS online - here, with an application fee of €7. Those under 18 or above 70 years of age, and family members of EU citizens or non-EU nationals with European Union mobility rights, are exempt from this fee.

Once approved, your ETIAS authorization offers unrestricted entry to the aforementioned European countries for short stays, eliminating the need to obtain new travel visas each time. This authorization is digitally linked to your passport and remains valid for up to three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you happen to get a new passport, make sure to get a new ETIAS.

To apply, you'll need a valid passport or travel document eligible for visa attachments. This should be valid for at least 3 months and not exceed 10 years in age. The online application will require you to provide personal information, travel document details, education and occupation particulars, details of your intended travel and stay within ETIAS-required countries, and information about criminal convictions, past visits to conflict zones, and any history of expulsion.

For minors under 18 years old, applications must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian.

To make your journey smooth, it's recommended to obtain your ETIAS before booking flights and accommodations. Most applications are processed within minutes, with a maximum processing time of 96 hours. While applying, you'll need to specify your initial destination, which guides the processing of your application. Once you have your granted travel authorization, you're free to adjust your plans and explore any of the 30 European countries covered by ETIAS. From the moment you arrive at the border, your ETIAS travel authorization becomes your travel companion. Make sure you carry the same document you submitted during your ETIAS application, as this will be needed for boarding flights, buses, ships, or entry into European countries requiring ETIAS.