ETIAS: is it live yet, and when does it start?
ETIAS is not live yet. As of 10 November 2026 the EU’s official ETIAS website says it is not in operation and no applications are being collected. The EU will announce the start date several months before launch. The EU had earlier said it expected ETIAS to start in the last quarter of 2026.
Checked against official sources on 10 November 2026. Not legal advice.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) will be an online authorisation for visa-exempt travellers. Once it starts, you will need it before you travel to any of 30 European countries: the 29 Schengen countries plus Cyprus.
Who will need ETIAS?
Nationals of visa-exempt countries, including the UK, the US, Canada and Australia. UK nationals covered by the EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement who hold the matching residence document are exempt, with exceptions for documents issued by Ireland and Cyprus.
How will ETIAS work?
- Apply on the official ETIAS website or app, and pay a EUR 20 fee. Some travellers are exempt.
- Most applications are processed within minutes. Others get a decision within 4 days, or longer if more information or an interview is needed.
- An authorisation is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. A new passport needs a new ETIAS.
- It is checked before you board your flight, bus, ship or train to Europe.
Does ETIAS change the 90/180 rule?
No. ETIAS lets you enter as often as you like for short stays, normally up to 90 days in any 180-day period. You still need to count your days. See how the 90/180 rule works. The Entry/Exit System, which is already running, records the days.
Where should you apply when it starts?
On the EU’s official ETIAS website or its ETIAS app. Until the EU announces a start date, ignore sites offering ETIAS authorisations.
Questions
Does ETIAS guarantee entry?
No. Border guards still check that you meet the entry conditions when you arrive.
Will ETIAS count time in Cyprus?
ETIAS will cover Cyprus, but the EU says time in Cyprus will be counted separately from the 90 days in the other 29 countries.