Americans Will Need a ‘Visa’ to Visit Europe in 2024.
Here’s What to Know.
The new program requires an online application and a minor fee, and is required for all travelers regardless of their age.
BY JESSICA POITEVIEN
July 19, 2023
AMERICAN PASSPORT HOLDERS
United States passport holders have long traveled throughout most of the world without having to worry about visa applications: American travelers currently have visa-free access to 184 destinations worldwide, according to this year’s Henley Passport Index, which ranked the U.S. passport as the eighth most powerful in the world. But that’s set to change next year, as the European Union prepares new travel document requirements for American tourists.
NEW REGULATIONS
The new regulations are called the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). When the system launches in early 2024, it will require all visitors who currently travel to Europe visa-free, such as citizens from the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, to apply for travel authorization and receive approval prior to their departure.
ETIAS is not a visa in the traditional sense; it only requires a quick online application, with approval delivered via email. In order to receive authorization, visitors must fill out an online form providing details about their basic biographical information, travel plans and travel history, as well as other security questions.
TRAVEL AUTHORIZATIONS
Most applicants will receive travel authorization within an hour; however, if further checks are needed, processing could take up to 96 hours.
Additionally, the application costs €7 (about $8) and is required for all travelers, regardless of age.
Once approved, this authorization is valid for multiple entries over three years or until the traveler’s passport expires.
Although many Americans initially worried about another travel document, as details about ETIAS emerge, travelers are expressing relief at its simplicity.
“Honestly, social media buzz around ETIAS made me nervous, but after research, that initial shock subsided,” says Alexa Moore, frequent Europe traveler.
She explains, “It’s still easy to travel to Europe. ETIAS is just one more step before the trip.”
The authorization applies to all ETIAS member countries: full Schengen members, EFTA countries, future Schengen members, and European microstates.
Its goal is to tighten border security and digitally screen travelers entering and leaving EU countries efficiently.
Moreover, ETIAS functions similarly to the U.S. ESTA program, which helps travelers understand the process more easily.
“I’m bummed, but it seems easy enough,” says travel blogger Nicki Post. It’s fair since U.S. entry rules are more complicated for Europeans.
Importantly, Americans’ tourist stay limits in Europe remain unchanged: 90 days within a 180-day period.
For stays longer, travelers must obtain a special visa.
The exact launch date is still unclear, and Moore anticipates some initial chaos but believes ETIAS won’t deter travel.
She adds, “We may see social media reports of people forgetting to apply, but pandemic travel has prepared people for new systems.”
Overall, ETIAS introduces one additional step but keeps Europe accessible, secure, and manageable for U.S. travelers.
(CONDÉ NAST TRAVELER) / (Traveler, 2023)
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