Non-EU nationals travelling to Europe for a short stay

Are you planning touring, working or holiday plans in Europe and aware of new EU requirements coming into place for visitors from third countries, including UK nationals? Read on for more information about EES and ETIAS.

A third country is any country that is not a member of the EU or the EEA (Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein), or the Swiss Confederation.

Entry/Exit System (EES)

The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system for registering third-country travellers, both short-stay visa holders and visa-exempt travellers, every time they cross an EU external border. The system records the person’s name, the type of travel document, biometric data (fingerprints and captured facial images) and the date and place of entry and exit, with full respect for fundamental rights and data protection.

The EES will enter into force in the second half of 2024.

Find out more on the European Commission and EES websites.

European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS)

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will apply to third-country nationals who are visa-exempt. They will need to obtain a travel authorisation before travelling via an online application form. For each application, the applicant will have to pay a travel authorisation fee of EUR 7.

The ETIAS will enter into force in mid-2025.

ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to any of these 30 European countries. It is linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation.

With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays – normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions.

Find out more on the European Commission website here and on the ETIAS website.


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