Planning a European Vacation in 2024? How the New ETIAS Rules Will Affect American Travelers

U.S. passport holders have enjoyed the privilege of traveling to many destinations without worrying about visas, especially in Europe. With visa-free access to 184 destinations, the U.S. passport ranks as one of the most powerful globally. However, the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is changing the landscape of travel for Americans visiting Europe in 2024.

ETIAS is not a conventional visa, but an online travel authorization system. Once it launches in early 2024, travelers from visa-free countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand will need to apply and receive approval before departure.

The ETIAS application process is simple, requiring only basic biographical information, travel details, and a quick security questionnaire. Approval is generally granted within an hour, but complex cases might take up to 96 hours. For just €7 (around $8), this authorization will be valid for three years or until the traveler’s passport expires.

Initially met with apprehension, many travelers now express relief at ETIAS’s simplicity. Alexa Moore, who frequents Europe, states, “It’s still easy for us to travel to Europe. It’s just one more step.”

The authorization is applicable across ETIAS member countries, including Schengen members like Spain, France, Italy, EFTA countries like Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, future Schengen members, and European microstates.

ETIAS aims to tighten border security and digitally screen travelers entering and leaving EU countries. Its role is akin to the U.S.’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), a fact that has helped travelers understand the new requirement.

Nicki Post, a travel blogger, says, “It’s only fair since the US makes it more complicated for Europeans and people of other nationalities to enter the US.”

It’s worth emphasizing that the ETIAS program doesn’t alter the 90 days within a 180-day period that U.S. citizens are permitted to stay in Europe as tourists. For longer stays, a special visa is necessary.

While the exact rollout date remains uncertain, travelers like Moore foresee some initial chaos, but believe ETIAS will ultimately not deter travel to Europe.