ETIAS launch date: what we know so far

The launch of ETIAS — the European Travel Information and Authorisation System — has been one of the most asked-about topics for travellers planning a trip to Europe. Here is a clear summary of what is currently expected.

The expected timeline

According to current European Commission planning, ETIAS is expected to start in the last quarter of 2026. The launch will be followed by a transitional period, during which having an ETIAS will be recommended but not yet strictly enforced for every traveller.

After the transitional period, ETIAS is expected to become fully mandatory during 2027. From that point, affected travellers will not be able to board a flight, train or ship to a participating European country without an approved authorisation.

Dates can shift. ETIAS is linked to the rollout of the Entry/Exit System (EES), and the European authorities have adjusted the schedule before. Always confirm on the official EU portal.

Why the date matters

If you are a visa-exempt traveller — for example from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Brazil or Japan — ETIAS will become part of your pre-travel checklist, much like the US ESTA is today.

Planning ahead matters because:

• Most applications are expected to be approved quickly, but some may take longer if extra checks are needed.
• Your ETIAS is tied to your passport, so a passport renewal means a new ETIAS.
• Travelling during the first months of any new system often comes with a learning curve.

What you can do now

Right now, no application can be submitted — not through the official portal, and not through any assistance service. The system simply is not open yet.

What you can do is get informed and be ready. Join our waiting list and we will notify you the moment applications open, so you can apply well before your trip.

We will keep this article updated as the European authorities confirm more details.