Europe Is Changing Entry Requirements for U.S. Visitors

Europe has changed its entry rules for U.S. visitors, and more changes are coming. Here’s what you need to know.

While Americans can still travel visa-free for short trips to European countries, two new electronic systems are being introduced: the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). 

Current changes (effective October 2025)

• Entry/Exit System (EES): Launching in October 2025, this automated system will replace the current manual passport stamping for non-EU travelers entering and exiting the Schengen area.
  • Biometric data: The EES will require U.S. travelers to provide facial images and fingerprints upon entry to participating countries. 

Future changes (effective late 2026)

• ETIAS travel authorization: In the last quarter of 2026, U.S. citizens will need to apply for ETIAS authorization for short-term stays in participating European countries.
  • Online application: This online application will be required for tourism, business, or transit stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Fee: The application is expected to cost €20, though it will be free for travelers under 18 and over 70. 

Rules for the United Kingdom

The UK has separate entry rules since leaving the European Union. 

• Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): The UK requires U.S. visitors to apply online for an ETA for short stays.
  • Fee: The application costs £10 (about $13.30). 

Important considerations for travelers

What is ETIAS?

• ETIAS is not a visa: ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization similar to the U.S. ESTA program. It is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals and does not grant automatic entry.
• Passport validity: For entry into the Schengen area, your U.S. passport must have been issued within the last 10 years and be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date. 
• It is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization linked to a traveler’s passport. 
• The application will be completed online and is expected to cost around €7. 
• Once approved, ETIAS will be valid for three years or until the passport expires. 

When will ETIAS be implemented?

• The implementation of ETIAS has been postponed several times and is now set for the last quarter of 2026. 
• The European Union will announce the exact start date several months in advance. 

What should US travelers do now?

No action is needed at this time for US citizens planning a trip to Europe. 

For now, standard passport entry rules apply for short-term stays. 

Travelers should keep an eye on official sources like the U.S. Department of State (.gov) and the ETIAS website (travel-europe.europa.eu/en/etias) for updates on the ETIAS launch.