What is Etias and when will I need to apply for one when travelling to the EU?

Etias is the EU’s forthcoming travel authorisation system, but UK travelers won't need to apply before 2027. The system will operate after the entry-exit system (EES) is fully operational, with Etias slated to start in the last quarter of 2026, and optional for six months thereafter. The scheme will require fingerprints and facial biometrics and carry a €20 fee, valid for three years or until passport expiry. It applies to 59 visa-exempt countries and territories, including Gibraltar from July 15, 2026, and covers most of the EU plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.