As of 8Mar25, ETIAS is currently not in operation and will not start in the first half of 2025. No action is required from travellers at this point. The European Union will inform about the start of ETIAS several months prior to its launch.
Once launched, travellers from visa-exempt countries, including Australia, will require an ETIAS Visa before visiting Schengen Area countries such as Spain, Italy, Germany, Greece, France, Iceland, Sweden, Portugal, and the Netherlands. The complete list of Schengen and non-EU countries entering the visa scheme is listed later in this article.
Understanding ETIAS
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is an electronic system designed to enhance security by pre-screening travellers entering the Schengen Zone. Although not a traditional visa, ETIAS require travellers to obtain authorisation before commencing their trip.
Application Process: Applying for an ETIAS Visa
The ETIAS application is straightforward and can be completed online:
- Personal Information: Provide details such as name, date of birth, and passport information.
- Travel Plans: Outline your intended travel itinerary within the Schengen Area.
- Security Questions: Answer questions related to health, criminal history, and previous travel.
- Fee Payment: Pay a processing fee of €7 (approximately AUD 12); applicants under 18 or over 70 are exempt from this fee.
Most applications are processed quickly, often within minutes. However, applying at least 96 hours before departure is advisable to accommodate unforeseen delays.
ETIAS Visa Validity and Duration
Once approved, ETIAS authorisation is valid for three years or until passport expiration. The visa permits multiple short-term stays up to 90 days within 180 days.
Impact on Australian Travellers
For Australian citizens accustomed to visa-free travel within Europe, the introduction of ETIAS represents a significant change. Planning trips will now require an additional administrative step to secure travel authorisation. While the process is efficient by design, we recommend applying early to ensure a seamless and care-free travel experience.
Expected Implementation Timeline
ETIAS is earmarked for operation in 2025, with the exact date contingent upon launching the Entry/Exit System (EES). Current projections suggest that ETIAS will commence six months after EES is in place. Travellers should stay informed about official announcements to ensure compliance with new travel requirements.
Key Considerations for Travellers
- Advance Application: Submit your ETIAS application well before departure to account for processing times.
- Accurate Information: Ensure all personal and travel details in the application are correct to avoid delays or refusals.
- Passport Validity: Confirm that your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in the Schengen Area.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check official sources for updates on ETIAS implementation and any changes to travel requirements.
Countries in the Schengen Zone
The Schengen Zone includes 23 countries. Although the Schengen Zone primarily comprises EU members, a few non-EU countries are also part of the agreement. Countries where the ETIAS visa will be required include:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria (Non-EU)
- Croatia
- Cyprus (Non-EU)
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland (Non-EU)
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein (Non-EU)
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway (Non-EU)
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland (Non-EU)
- Romania (Non-EU)
In summary, by preparing and applying for your ETIAS Visa well in advance, Australian travellers can avoid unnecessary delays on their next European vacation or business trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone travelling to Schengen Zone countries from a visa-exempt country, including Australian citizens, must apply for an ETIAS Visa starting in 2025. This requirement applies to all travellers regardless of age, including children and seniors.
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is a travel authorisation system for visa-free travellers visiting the Schengen Zone. It is not a visa but a pre-screening system designed to enhance security and streamline entry into Europe. Travellers will need to apply online, providing personal and travel information and paying a small fee.
Most ETIAS applications are processed within minutes. However, it is recommended to apply at least 96 hours before your departure in case of delays. Applications may take longer if additional checks are required.
An approved ETIAS Visa is valid for three years or until the associated passport expires, whichever comes first. It allows multiple short-term stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the Schengen Zone.
Australian travellers, who previously enjoyed visa-free access to the Schengen Zone, will now need to secure ETIAS authorization before travelling. While the process is quick and online, it requires planning ahead to avoid delays. This change affects all Australian visitors, including those travelling for business, tourism, or transit purposes.
Established in 1985, the Schengen Zone includes 23 European countries that have abolished internal border controls, allowing over 400 million people seamless travel across member states. Established through the Schengen Agreement, this area functions as a single jurisdiction for international travel, requiring visitors to adhere to a unified set of entry and visa policies.
