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The last quarter of 2026 might sound like it’s a ways off, but in the world of travel planning, it’s right around the corner. If you’re already dreaming of that big European trip for late next year or 2027, you’re not alone. But there’s a new, mandatory step coming that savvy travelers are already preparing for.
After years of delays and confusion, the ETIAS travel pass has a firm deadline, and the countdown has officially begun.
Here at Travel Off Path, we’re all about giving you the intel to stay one step ahead. Forget the future panic; here are the 5 simple things you need to do now to be perfectly prepared for Europe’s new system.
Wondering if your favorite spot is on the list? Our final step below has the full rundown of all 30 countries that will require this new pass.
1. Check Your Passport Expiration Date Right Now 🛂
This is the single most important and actionable tip on the list. An approved ETIAS will be valid for three years, or until your passport expires—whichever comes first.
Think about it: if you apply for your ETIAS with a passport that expires in one year, your ETIAS will also expire in one year. To get the absolute maximum value, you’ll want to apply with a passport that has at least three years of validity remaining.
The Pro Move: Check your passport’s expiration date today. If it’s set to expire in 2027 or 2028, consider renewing it in early 2026 before you apply for your first ETIAS. This simple step will lock in your travel authorization for the full three years.
2. Bookmark The Official Website (And Ignore The Fakes)
As soon as the application portal goes live, the internet will be flooded with scammy, third-party websites trying to charge you exorbitant fees for the exact same service. Don’t fall for it.
There will only be one official ETIAS website run by the European Union. While it’s not fully operational for applications yet, you should bookmark the official homepage now:
- Here is the Official EU ETIAS Website link.
- Save this link, and when the time comes, apply directly through the official source. It will save you money and protect your personal information.
3. Know What ETIAS Isn’t
A lot of the panic around ETIAS comes from a simple misunderstanding. Let’s clear it up.
- It’s NOT a visa. It’s a simple, online visa waiver, much like the ESTA for visiting the U.S. There are no embassy appointments or interviews.
- It does NOT guarantee entry. You still need to go through passport control like always.
- It’s NOT needed for the UK or Ireland. ETIAS is for the 30 countries in the Schengen Zone and its associated members. The United Kingdom and Ireland have their own separate entry rules.
4. Add It To Your Mental Travel Budget
The good news is that the ETIAS is incredibly cheap. The application fee will be €7 (about $7.50 USD), and travelers under 18 or over 70 are exempt from paying.
While it’s a small amount, it’s a new cost to factor in. The best way to think of it is like a new standard travel fee, similar to a checked bag fee or a city’s tourist tax. Just know that for any trip to the Schengen Zone from late 2026 onwards, this will be part of the plan.
5. Know Which Countries Will Require The Pass
This is the most critical checklist item. Knowing where you’ll need the pass is key to a smooth trip. The ETIAS will be required for entry into the following 30 countries:
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
Are You Ready For ETIAS?
Europe’s new travel pass is coming. Take this 5-question quiz to see if you’re prepared for the new rules.
Question 1 of 5
To get the most value from your ETIAS, what’s the smartest move with your passport?
✅ Correct! Thinking ahead like a savvy traveler to maximize the 3-year validity.
🤔 Not quite! The smartest move is to renew your passport so it’s valid for at least 3 years, matching the ETIAS validity.
Question 2 of 5
Where is the ONLY safe place to apply for your ETIAS?
✅ Exactly! Only the official EU site is safe. Many scam sites will appear, so be careful.
🤔 Not quite! Scammers will create fake sites. The only safe place will be the single official EU website.
Question 3 of 5
Which of these statements is TRUE about the ETIAS?
✅ Correct! It’s a simple travel authorization, not a visa and not a guarantee of entry.
🤔 Not quite! The most important thing to remember is that ETIAS is a simple travel authorization, not a visa.
Question 4 of 5
How much will the ETIAS application cost for most adults?
✅ Correct! The good news is it’s very affordable at only €7 (about $7.50).
🤔 Not quite! The good news is it’s very affordable, at only about $7.50. The correct answer is highlighted above.
Question 5 of 5
Which popular European destination will NOT require an ETIAS?
✅ Correct! Important: The UK has its own, separate Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) that Americans now need.
🤔 Not quite! Important: The UK is the correct answer, and it has its own, separate Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) that Americans now need.
You’re an ETIAS Expert!
You’ve got a perfect handle on the new rules. But remember, requirements can change. Always do a final check before you fly!
Navigating the world of entry rules can be a headache, but it doesn’t have to be. To stay on top of this and any other changes, the best tool is our 1 Minute Trip Check, which gives you the real-time entry requirements for any destination.
The Travel Off Path Advantage: Your Travel Toolkit
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