Question 1

Do I need ETIAS for my trip?

Accepted Answer

If you hold a visa-exempt non-EU passport (US, UK, Canada, Australia and ~60 other nationalities) and you're entering one of the 30 Schengen-area countries for a stay of up to 90 days, you'll need ETIAS once it launches in Q4 2026. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens have free movement and don't need ETIAS. Ireland is not in Schengen, and the UK uses its own ETA scheme.

Question 2

How much does ETIAS cost in 2026?

Accepted Answer

ETIAS costs €20 (raised from €7 in July 2025). Applicants under 18 or above 70 are exempt from the fee but still must apply. The authorisation is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Question 3

What are the passport rules for Schengen entry?

Accepted Answer

Two prongs: your passport must have been issued within the last 10 years AND remain valid for at least 3 months (90 days) past your planned departure from the EU. The calculator flags 'MARGINAL' if you're within 30 days of failing either rule, so you can renew before booking.