ETIAS vs ESTA: what is the difference?

Travellers often ask whether ETIAS is "the European ESTA." The short answer is yes — in concept. Both are electronic travel authorisations for visa-exempt visitors, tied to a passport and obtained online before travel. But the details differ.

What they have in common

• Not a visa. Both are pre-travel authorisations, not visas.
• Online only. No embassy appointment or biometric interview.
• Linked to your passport. Get a new passport and you need a new authorisation.
• Pre-screening. Both check applicants before they arrive at the border.

The key differences

	ETIAS (Europe)	ESTA (USA)
Covers	30 European countries	United States
Official fee	€20 per adult	US$21
Validity	Up to 3 years	Up to 2 years
Max stay	90 days / 180 days	Up to 90 days
Fee exemptions	Under 18 and over 70	None

Coverage is the big one

The most important practical difference is coverage. An ESTA is for travel to a single country, the United States. An approved ETIAS, on the other hand, will cover 30 European countries, letting you move between them for short stays without applying again for each one.

Which should you worry about?

It depends on where you are going. If you are heading to Europe and you currently travel visa-free, ETIAS will become a requirement once it launches. If you are also planning a trip to the US, you will still need a separate ESTA.

The good news: if you have used ESTA before, the ETIAS process will feel familiar. When applications open, we will help you prepare yours correctly. Join the waiting list to be notified.