EU ETIAS Eligibility Checker
2026
Check whether your passport requires ETIAS pre-authorisation to enter 30 European countries — or if you still need a full Schengen visa. Includes 2026 launch status.
Check Your ETIAS Requirement
ETIAS Explained in Plain English
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is a pre-travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers. It is not a visa. When operations begin in the last quarter of 2026, an application will cost €20 and an authorisation will generally remain valid for up to 3 years or until the linked passport expires. If you are seeking to work or live long-term in Europe, see the Germany EU Blue Card Checker or UK Skilled Worker Salary Checker.
Who Needs ETIAS?
Citizens of 60+ countries who are currently visa-free for EU/Schengen travel. This includes US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, UAE, and others.
Who Needs a Schengen Visa?
Citizens of countries NOT on the EU visa-free list — including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Philippines, Nigeria, China, and most African nations. ETIAS does not apply to them.
What Does ETIAS Require?
A valid travel document, email address, and payment of the €20 fee where applicable. Most applications are expected to be processed within minutes, although some can take longer. Validity is up to 3 years or until the linked passport expires.
Countries Covered
30 countries: all 26 Schengen states (including Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein) plus Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, and Cyprus. The UK is NOT covered by ETIAS.
ETIAS vs Schengen Visa — Key Differences
| Feature | ETIAS | Schengen Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Visa-exempt nationalities | Non-visa-exempt nationalities |
| Cost | €20 | Varies by applicant |
| Process | Online form, ~minutes | Appointment + documents, weeks |
| Validity | 3 years / multiple entries | Usually 90 days, single/double entry |
| Documents needed | Passport + email | Bank statements, itinerary, insurance, etc. |
| Denial risk | Low (for eligible nationals) | Higher, discretionary |
| Max stay | 90 days / 180 days | 90 days / 180 days |
30 Countries Covered by ETIAS
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Indian passport holders need ETIAS?
No. Indian passport holders are NOT visa-free for the EU/Schengen area and therefore do not need ETIAS. You need a Schengen visa to visit EU countries. ETIAS applies only to nationalities that are already visa-exempt.
When does ETIAS start?
The European Union says ETIAS will start operating in the last quarter of 2026. The specific launch date has not yet been announced, and travellers cannot apply yet.
What is the difference between ETIAS and a Schengen visa?
ETIAS is a pre-travel authorisation, not a visa, for passport holders who are already visa-exempt. It will cost €20 and generally be valid for up to 3 years or until the linked passport expires. Other travellers may need a Schengen visa instead.
Which countries require ETIAS?
ETIAS will be required for citizens of 60+ countries who currently travel to EU/Schengen countries visa-free. This includes US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, UAE, and many others. Indian, Pakistani, and most African passport holders still need a full Schengen visa.
How much does ETIAS cost?
ETIAS will cost €20 and is generally valid for up to 3 years or until the linked passport expires, whichever comes first. Travellers under 18 or over 70 are exempt from the application fee.