Increased ETIAS Travel Authorisation Cost to €20 Anticipated before 2026 Implementation
The European Union is taking a significant step towards modernising its travel and migration management infrastructure with the announcement of a fee increase for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). The new fee will be €20 per application and is set to take effect when the system becomes operational in the last quarter of 2026.
ETIAS will apply to travellers from more than 60 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Japan, and South Korea. The system is designed to reinforce the EU's approach to risk-based border management by allowing pre-arrival screening of travellers who are currently not subject to visa requirements.
The updated fee brings the EU in line with global standards. For instance, the United States ESTA currently charges USD 21, while Canada's eTA costs CAD 7. The new fee will not apply to certain categories, such as individuals under the age of 18, over 70, family members of EU citizens, and holders of diplomatic passports under specific conditions.
The European Commission argues that the €20 fee reflects the system's actual operational needs and ensures financial sustainability. The Commission has stated that ETIAS will constitute a key component of the EU's broader digital border strategy once operational.
The ETIAS area includes all EU member states except Ireland, along with the four Schengen-associated countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus are also expected to participate once the system is in place.
The implementation of ETIAS has been delayed and is now expected to launch in October 2026. The measure is subject to a two-month scrutiny period by the European Parliament and the Council.
ETIAS will work in conjunction with existing EU databases such as the Schengen Information System (SIS), the Entry/Exit System (EES), and the Visa Information System (VIS). The ETIAS authorisation will be checked by carriers and border authorities before and upon entry into participating countries.
The revision was made to ensure operational costs of ETIAS are adequately covered. ETIAS is closely aligned with schemes such as the United States ESTA and Canada's eTA. Once operational, ETIAS will be a significant addition to the EU's efforts to enhance border security and manage travel effectively.
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