For the majority of American tourists, traveling to Europe will soon become (somewhat) more difficult and costly due to new
travel visa requirements.
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After the program’s initial 2024 launch plan was postponed, travelers from more than 60 visa-exempt countries will now need to apply for European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) approval prior to their trips beginning in 2025, according to the official travel website of the European Union. ETIAS visas are electronically connected to the traveler’s passport rather than being tangible paperwork.
The majority of EU nations are now open to unrestricted travel by citizens of the United States, but the new rule would alter this freedom. Meanwhile, since 2009, foreign travelers to the United States have need to apply for a comparable authorization. The ETIAS strategy and the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) procedure are comparable.
What is the European Authorization and Information System for Travel (ETIAS)?
ETIAS “is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling to any of these 30 European countries,” according to documents from the European Union.
The government also states that ETIAS clearance is only meant for 90-day stays, maximum, within a 180-day period.
How do you submit an ETIAS visa application?
When the ETIAS mandate goes into effect in the middle of 2025, the European Union will accept applications via an official website and mobile app.
In order for a visa to be attached, applicants must provide information from their passport or another official travel document.
Parents and legal guardians may apply for children under their control.

What is the duration of ETIAS approval?
The three years that an ETIAS approval is valid are up until the passport’s expiration date, whichever comes first.
What is the cost of an ETIAS application?
While there is a 7 euro ($7.64) processing cost for ETIAS applications, those under the age of 18 or over 70 may apply for free.read more
How much time will it take to complete an ETIAS application?
The European Union states that most applications should get ETIAS clearance in minutes, although it might take up to 30 days. The government strongly urges applicants to get their ETIAS permission before to making travel or lodging reservations, and encourages them to apply well in advance of any trip.
If I have a valid ETIAS visa, may I still be refused entrance into a country?
Sure. The EU states that having an ETIAS visa does not ensure entrance and that visitors would still need to go through border procedures upon arrival.read more
Sourse : usatoday.com
A new requirement to visit most European countries was postponed until 2025. It was initially supposed to go into force in 2024, but it has been repeatedly delayed.
A European Travel Information and permission System, or ETIAS, online travel permission is required.
The goal is to tighten security measures for citizens of more than 60 countries, including the United States, who are permitted entry into the Schengen Area of Europe without a visa.
A new rule for US tourists going to Europe that was supposed to go into effect the following year was once again postponed until 2025.
Visitor travel permission via the European Travel Information and permission System, or ETIAS, is mandatory for 30 European countries, including well-known tourism destinations like France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain. These countries need online travel authorization.
Processing could take up to a month for some
The application cost is waived for those who are over 70 or under the age of 18.
The EU states that the majority of applications will be completed in minutes, and no later than four days. But according to the EU, it may take longer—up to 30 more days—if tourists are required to provide more information or paperwork or participate in an interview with national authorities.
According to the EU website, “we strongly advise you to obtain the ETIAS travel authorization before you buy your tickets and book your hotels.”
The duration of the ETIAS permit is three years, or until the expiration of your passport, whichever comes first. It is not necessary for visitors to apply for a new ETIAS each time they visit Europe if they already have one. source : cnbc.com