ETIAS for US citizens: what Americans need to know

For decades, US passport holders have been able to travel to Europe for tourism or business without a visa. ETIAS does not end visa-free travel — it adds a simple, mostly automated authorisation step, similar to the ESTA that visitors to the United States already use.

Do US citizens need an ETIAS?

Yes. Once ETIAS is in force, US citizens will need an approved ETIAS to enter the 30 participating European countries for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

This applies to:

• Tourism and holidays
• Business trips and conferences
• Visiting family and friends
• Transiting through a European airport (in many cases)

What American travellers will need

When applications open, US applicants should have ready:

• A valid US passport (with at least 3 months' validity beyond departure)
• A valid email address
• A payment method for the €20 official fee

Most applications are expected to be approved within minutes, though some can take longer if additional review is required — so it is wise to apply before booking non-refundable travel.

How this compares to ESTA

If you have visited the United States from abroad, you will recognise the model — but as a US citizen, ETIAS may be your first time on the applicant side of such a system. The principle is the same: answer a short set of questions online, pay the fee, and receive an electronic authorisation linked to your passport.

Be ready before you travel

ETIAS is not open yet, so no one can apply at the moment. The best step right now is to stay informed. Join our waiting list and we will email you the moment US travellers can apply — and guide you through every field so nothing is missed.