Do I Need an ETIAS? Your Guide to a Smooth European Getaway

Figuring out travel requirements can be a hassle, but we're here to make it easy for you. This guide will help you understand if you need an ETIAS for your European adventure. We'll cover the basic requirements, who's exempt, and what you need to do to get your ETIAS.

The Basics: Who Needs an ETIAS?

Starting in 2026, if you're a citizen of one of the 60+ visa-exempt countries, you'll need an ETIAS to travel to 30 European countries for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period). This applies to trips for:

• Tourism
• Business meetings
• Visiting family or friends
• Transit
• Short-term medical treatment

The most important thing you'll need is a biometric passport. Make sure it's valid for at least three months after you plan to leave Europe and that it was issued within the last 10 years. Your ETIAS will be electronically linked to this passport, so it's essential to use the correct one.

Quick Eligibility Check

Not sure if you need an ETIAS? Use our quick eligibility checker to find out in seconds.

Exemptions: Who is exempt from ETIAS

There are important exemptions. You do NOT NEED to obtain an ETIAS if you fall into one of the following categories:

1. Holders of long-stay visas or residence permits

If you have any other type of long-stay residence permit or a national long-stay visa (type D) issued by one of the Schengen countries, you do not need an ETIAS to travel within the zone.

2. Citizens of the EU and some other European countries

If you are a citizen of an EU member state, or of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or the Vatican City, you do not need an ETIAS.^,

ETIAS validity

An approved ETIAS authorisation is valid for three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can make an unlimited number of trips to the EU, subject to the 90/180 rule.