For decades, British travellers have enjoyed the freedom of hopping across to Europe with just a passport in hand. So much so, in fact, that Spain has begun an anti-tourism movement.
But all that is about to change with the introduction of ETIAS, another Brexit surprise, which is a pre-travel authorisation system that will alter how Brits visit the continent.
What is the new travel authorisation system
European Travel Information and Authorisation System is a new travel requirement for visa-free visitors to 30 European countries. It’s the usual limits of short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The system is touted to help with security and high epidemic risks posed by travellers before they begin their journey.
Similar to the US’ ESTA system, ETIAS is not so much a visa but instead an electronic authorisation that will be checked along with travel documents at EU borders. Once approved, it’s valid for three years (or sooner if your passport expires). It costs €20 for travellers aged between 18 and 70, and is free outside of that.
When will British travellers need ETIAS?
ETIAS is scheduled to come into force in the last quarter of 2026, which will be around a year after the implementation of the Entry/Exit System. The European Commission confirmed they’ll announce the specific launch date a few months in advance to give travellers time to prepare. But is there much preparation needed?
Well the EC is providing a six month transition period after ETIAS launches just in case. During this time, travellers are encouraged to apply but won’t be denied entry if they haven’t yet obtained authorisation. So for a while, it will be optional.
How ETIAS will affect popular Spanish holidays
For the thousands of Brits who walk the Camino de Santiago each year, routes like the Way of Saint James will likely be no less quiet. ETIAS will just be another checklist item to tick off with their preparations.
Currently, these pilgrims simply need their passport to begin their journey. After the transition period, it might not be until 2027 until they need to complete the form.
The application process is designed to be very quick and straightforward, conducted online through the official ETIAS website. Applicants will need to provide personal data such as name and date of birth, along with passport information and their EU member state of entry. So, whether they go from Finisterre or France will matter. A few background questions may also be asked about health and criminal records.
For most, applications will be processed in minutes. At most, it might be 96 hours, or in very exceptional circumstances, up to a month. So, advice is, don’t leave it until a month before.
The broader implications for British-European travel
ETIAS represents a symbolic change, but it’s not too much of an administrative one. It does cost almost as much as a Ryanair flight, so that can be perceived as significant, but holidays themselves are not price elastic enough to respond much to a 20 euro fee – especially considering they can be used for multiple trips. One thing that will be impacted, however, is the frequency of travellers overstaying their 90-day limits…
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