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Note: The dates provided are provisional and may be subject to change.
Update* ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026.
There are many countries who are not in the European Union (EU) whose citizens can enter the EU Schengen Zone without needing a visa. Specifically, there are currently 62 countries who are not in the EU, but are visa free.
Citizens of these countries are allowed to go into countries in the Schengen Zone for business or travel purposes for up to 90 days. During these 90 days, these visitors are not allowed to work or study, but can engage in business and tourism activities.
In addition, recent security concerns with terrorism and the migrant crisis have called for a better management of who is entering EU borders. The EU has continuously declared its goal of making travelling within its borders a more secure experience.
To reduce procedures and wait times, as well as address the security concerns, the European Commission (EC) has come up with a solution – ETIAS.
This article will contain all the information you need regarding this new system and whether you qualify for it.
UK Nationals will be allowed visa free travel into the Schengen area so will be subject to the ETIAS regulations.
UKNS who are residents in Spain and are holders of the biometric residency card (TIE), will have procedure and waiting times reduced at Schengen borders. The card shows your right to enter your EU host country and exempts you and your family members from ETIAS and visa requirements when entering that country.
UK nationals are required to have a valid ETIAS travel authorisation if they travel to any of the European countries requiring ETIAS for a short-term stay (90 days in any 180-day period).
UK nationals who wish to stay longer must meet the entry requirements in accordance with national or EU migration law, such as holding a visa or residence permit.
ETIAS exemptions for UK nationals who are beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement
UK nationals and their family members who are beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement are exempt from ETIAS: they may reside on the territory of their EU host country and travel to other European countries requiring ETIAS as long as they hold documents proving their status. Includes information on ETA for entering the UK for certain travellers.
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/who-should-apply_en#nationals-of-the-united-kingdom
An electronic payment of a €7 fee for each application will be required for
all applicants between the ages of 18 and 70.
Third country nationals exempt from ETIAS in the link below.
Thank you to the European Commission for the above information.
