What Is ETIAS and EES and How Do They Affect Travel to Europe?

The ETIAS program, once proclaimed a done deal, is currently not in effect. Instead, Europe-bound travelers are faced with EES, a new and trouble-plagued technology meant to confirm identity. Like EES now, ETIAS will one day affect everyone planning to travel to Europe. The Schengen authorities are using new strategies and technologies such as EES and ETIAS to make the region safer for tourists and residents alike.

Who Are The Schengen Authorities and Where is Schengen?

Hint: Schengen is not a new country.

If you haven’t heard, Schengen is a treaty among member countries of what’s called the Schengen Zone. The Schengen Agreement and region are named after the town in Luxembourg where the agreement was signed. Since 1985, it has allowed people and goods to pass freely across the borders of each country without passport or other controls. The Schengen Zone is great news for travelers.

Now it encompasses almost all EU Member States and a few associated non-EU countries — about 30 countries in total. Although internal borders are gone, external border controls have been tightened. You can see the complete list of Schengen countries as of August 2026 below.

What are ETIAS and EES (Entry / Exit System)?

The European Travel Information and Authorization System also known as ETIAS was supposed to be implemented by May 2025.

The extended postponement is being blamed on the delayed launch of another border security measure, Entry/Exit System or EES. You’ve probably read about new biometric requirements and digital electronic travel authorization technology used to register the arrival and departure of visitors to each country. The process reads biometrically scannable passports, confirms identity, and allows entry at many EU borders.

That technology, meant to replace that stern smile of an Immigration Office who used to “stamp” your passport at the airport, has faced many technical hurdles since its implementation in the spring of 2026. Hundreds of hours waiting in lines at border control, thousands of missed flights across Europe, and general airport chaos are not exaggerations. That’s why ETIAS has not begun.

How Does the ETIAS Program Work?

The ETIAS program, supposedly simpler to implement, is an electronic visa waiver that will allow eligible foreign citizens (from visa-free countries and a few others) to register before traveling to Europe.

ETIAS is not a visa. However, ETIAS will be mandatory. Keep in mind that a similar travel authorization system is already in place in the US, Canada and Australia for foreign visitors from visa-exempt nations. You can find more ETIAS information here.

Once visitors have an ETIAS visa waiver, they will be able to visit Europe for up to 90 days for tourism and business purposes. You will only need one ETIAS in order to visit all Schengen countries. You can leave and return with the same ETIAS visa for three years or until your passport expires.

Students who plan to study abroad in Europe for more than 90 days need a student visa from their destination country. Most study abroad programs will provide assistance in obtaining one. Apply for an ETIAS travel authorization if you’re studying for less than 90 days by contacting the consulate of the country you intend to study in.

Why are EES and ETIAS Being Implemented in Europe?

The EES and ETIAS systems will benefit Europe and its foreign visitors in several ways.

Safety and security within the Schengen Zone are the number 1 reasons for the existence of EES and ETIAS. Thanks to the new system, the European authorities will be able to see who’s entering Europe and when, ensuring better control over the borders between Schengen and non-Schengen countries.

The exchange of information between Schengen countries will give European law enforcement relevant, real-time data that will assist them in fighting terrorism and international crime and have better control over illegal immigration.

How Will ETIAS Affect Traveling to Europe with Your Family?

All eligible travelers will need to apply for it starting in early 2025. This includes minors and infants — even if they are featured on a guardian’s passport.

Parents can help their children complete an application before leaving. At present, the application fee is expected to be 20 Euros. Please note that minors will be exempt from paying the ETIAS application fee.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) About ETIAS and Travel to Europe

Is ETIAS a visa?

No, it is not a visa. It is a visa waiver program that allows eligible travelers to register before their trip. You won’t lose that status if you’re already visa-exempt, but registration will be mandatory.

Can minors apply for ETIAS?

Yes, minors and even infants need to apply for it. Parents can assist in completing the application, and minors are often exempt from the application fee.

Is ETIAS mandatory for all travelers to Europe?

Once fully implemented, it will be mandatory for eligible travelers planning to visit Europe.

Can I get ETIAS at the border or upon arrival in Europe?

No, it must be obtained before arriving at the border. It is not available for on-the-spot issuance. If this article helped you, consider checking out the other articles below

• Learn More About Travel Permission and Travel Consent Letters for Kids
• Permission to Travel and Child Consent Form Letters
• Travel Tips for Hassle Free Airport Transit and Travels
• Requested Travel Documents

Susan Noel is a passionate traveler and experienced content writer. She has contributed this blog post on behalf of sponsor, ETIAS. The FTF editorial team updated it in August 2026.