The ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to any of these 30 European countries (including Spain and Portugal). It will be operational in the last quarter of 2026.
When will the ETIAS start?
- It will start operations in the last quarter of 2026. Date to be announced.
- No action is required from travellers at this point (February 2026)
- The European Union will inform about the exact date for the start of ETIAS
several months prior to its launch.
What is the ETIAS?
- It is an entry requirement for travelling to most countries in Europe.
these 30 European countries (including Spain and Portugal). - Even if you do not require a visa to visit Europe, you will have to apply online for an ETIAS authorisation.
- It is linked to your passport.
- It is valid for up to three years.
- With a valid 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.
How to apply for the ETIAS
- Official ETIAS website or the mobile application.
- It costs 20 euros.
- It can take up to 30 days in exceptional circumstances. In most cases it is processed within minutes.
- Once your application has been processed, you will receive an email informing you about its outcome.
Best practice
- Apply for it well in advance – before you buy your
ticket or book your accommodation - Make sure your passport details correspond to those in your ETIAS authorisation – you will be refused boarding and entry at the border if they do not match.
Visit the official website for more information: Travel to Europe
We will update this blog as soon as we receive more information about the start date.
