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System for registering non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay in 29 European countries (starting in the second half of 2024)

Travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to enter 30 European countries (starting in the first half of 2025)

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New requirements for Americans traveling to Europe postponed until 2025

Visitors who now travel visa-free will need to get approval prior to departure.

Americans eyed upcoming travel to European destinations slightly differently due to news of a requirement that was set to start in 2024 for U.S. passport holders. But now, EU officials have postponed the European Travel Information and Authorisation System ( ETIAS ) launch until spring of 2025.

SchengenVisaInfo.com, a website dedicated to the world's largest visa-free zone where 27 European countries abolished their internal borders known as the Schengen Area, first reported that an EU official confirmed ETIAS won't go live until May 2025, "due to continued delays with the introduction of the related Entry-Exit System (EES), which needs to be operational before ETIAS can be implemented."

An official for the European Union did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment.

What to know about ETIAS for US travelers

If you previously traveled to Europe without a visa, you will now need to apply for authorization through the ETIAS , before visiting.

Today, American travelers have visa-free access to 184 global destinations, according to the Henley Passport Index . And while the U.S. passport is currently ranked eighth-most powerful passport to own, that could be set to shift when the European Union adds its new documentation requirements for U.S. visitors.

The application form, which will be available on the official ETIAS website as well as a mobile application, has a fee of 7 euros or $7.79 U.S. dollars. All communication is done by email.

Once you are approved for travel, the authorization entitles visitors to stay in European countries that require ETIAS for up to 90 days within any 180-day period and travelers must be in possession of a valid ETIAS during their entire stay.

MORE: New warning issued for rebooking air travel after delays, cancellations

According to ETIAS, most applications should be processed within minutes, but in case an application takes longer, decisions will be sent within four days or up to 14 days if the applicant is asked to provide additional documentation.

The European Union encourages travelers to apply for an ETIAS authorization "well in advance of your planned journey."

Confirmation of application submission will be sent on email with a unique number that is needed for future reference.

Upon receiving ETIAS travel authorization, travelers are to ensure that their name, passport number and other information is correct because any mistake will prevent them from crossing the border.

If an application is refused, the email will include the reasons for the decision along with information about how to appeal.

ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years, according to the EU, or until the travel document you used in your application expires, whichever comes first.

MORE: European heat wave breaking records with little relief in sight

The ETIAS authorization is linked to a person's travel document -- such as a U.S. passport -- and both documents will be needed to board a flight, bus or ship to enter any of the European countries that require ETIAS.

Similar to international border requirements with a passport, the ETIAS authorization doesn't guarantee automatic right of entry. "Border guards will verify that you meet the entry conditions" and anyone who does not meet the conditions "will be refused entry," according to the EU.

Click here to learn more about the process from the European Union.

An earlier version of this story was originally published on July 21, 2023.

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In Europe's Schengen area , your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of your entry. At present, the Schengen area includes most European Union (EU) countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland.

If you are transiting through Canada or the United Kingdom (UK) enroute to the Schengen area : your passport must be valid for at least six months, even though Canada and the UK do not themselves have the six-month rule. If your passport will expire within six months, airlines may not let you board your onward flight to Europe.

Traveling in Europe

If you plan to travel in Europe, you need to know about the Schengen Borders Agreement, which allows you to move freely within a number of countries without border checks. Tourists, exchange students, and people visiting for business from certain countries, like the United States, can travel in the Schengen area for up to 90 days. The Schengen area includes most EU countries, except for Cyprus and Ireland. It also includes four non-EU countries: Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Before you travel to the Schengen area, we recommend you do the following:

• Check the expiration date on your passport book carefully before traveling to Europe. Ensure your passport book is valid for at least six months when you enter the Schengen area. This is especially important for minors under age 16 as their passports are only valid for five years. In contrast, U.S. citizen adults aged 16 and older receive passports that are valid for 10 years.
• Always carry your passport book with you when traveling to another country in the Schengen area. Even if there is no border check at that time, officials may reinstate border controls without notice.
• Be prepared to explain your purpose of travel.
• Be prepared to provide proof of sufficient financial resources for the visit.
• Comply with other entry requirements for each country you will visit or transit.

On our Country Information pages , you can find passport validity requirements and other important information for your destination country. If your passport does not meet the Schengen requirements, you may be:

• Refused boarding by the airline at your point of origin or while transferring planes.
• Denied entry when you arrive in the Schengen area, regardless of how long you will stay.

An immigration official will determine if you qualify for visa-free entry to the Schengen area when you first cross any external Schengen border. You will have to present your passport at that time. The officer may deny your entry if you do not qualify.

You should also check passport validity requirements if traveling onward from the Schengen area to a country outside the Schengen area. You can find this information in our Country Information pages.

HOW LONG CAN I REMAIN?

• With a valid U.S. passport book, you can stay up to 90 days in the Schengen area for tourism or business during any 180-day period. You must wait an additional 90 days before applying to re-enter the Schengen area.
• If you plan to stay in the Schengen area longer than three months, contact the embassy of the country where you plan to spend the majority of your time and apply for a visa.

Countries in the Schengen area may reinstate temporary internal or external border control without notice. U.S. citizens should carry their U.S. passport book at all times when entering or leaving the Schengen area. They should also bring it when traveling between Schengen countries.

How can the U.S. government help me if border officials do not let me enter?

• We can give you the contact information of foreign embassies of the countries you wish to visit.
• We can provide information about hiring an English-speaking foreign attorney overseas if you choose to do so.
• Note: We cannot influence a foreign government’s decision about allowing you to enter. We cannot intervene in another country’s criminal or administrative procedures.

What countries are members of the Schengen Borders Agreement?

Click on the country name for more information.

Bulgaria (entering in March 2024)

Czech Republic

Liechtenstein

Netherlands

Romania (entering in March 2024)

Switzerland

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A Country-by-country Guide to COVID-19 Entry Requirements in Europe

Everything you need to know for a safe and healthy trip to Europe.

When the COVID-19 pandemic first spread around the world, many countries shut their borders. In the years since, countries have opened, welcoming tourists with different vaccination or testing rules in place. 

But many countries in Europe have since dropped travel-related restrictions, reverting back to pre-pandemic times and making it easier than ever to plan a trip. 

Here, we've outlined every country in Europe and its current reopening status, including entry any requirements foreign travelers need to know.

Albania does not require U.S. travelers to show any COVID-19-related documents or tests, according to the U.S. Embassy in Albania .

To get to Andorra, visitors need to go through France or Spain, and therefore abide by the rules and regulations for those individual countries. Beyond that, there are no further entry requirements for coming to Andorra, according to the Andorra tourism site .

Austria is open to travel and there are no vaccination or testing requirements in place, according to the country’s official tourism site . In Vienna, masks must be worn on public transportation. 

Belgium welcomes travelers from the U.S. and does not require them to show proof of vaccination, recovery, or a negative test, according to the U.S. Embassy in Belgium . 

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomes U.S. travelers without any COVID-19-related travel restrictions, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina .

Bulgaria welcomes U.S. travelers without any COVID-19-related travel restrictions, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bulgaria . 

Croatia welcomes U.S. travelers without any COVID-19-related travel restrictions, according to the Croatian National Tourist Board .

Cyprus has eliminated all COVID-19-related entry restrictions, according to the Deputy Ministry of Tourism . Masks remain mandatory on public transportation. 

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has eliminated all COVID-19-related entry restrictions, according to the Ministry of the Interior of the Czech Republic .

Denmark eliminated all of its COVID-19 entry and internal restrictions, according to the government’s COVID-19 website .

Estonia has eliminated all COVID-19-related rules, according to the government .

Finland has lifted all COVID-19-related entry rules, according to the Finnish government .

France has lifted all pandemic-related entry rules, according to the French government .

There are no longer any COVID-19-related entry rules for travel to Germany, according to the German Missions in the United States .

Greece has lifted all pandemic-era travel rules, according to the government . Greece has an optional Passenger Locator Form travelers can choose to fill out.

Hungary has lifted all COVID-19-related entry rules, according to the Hungarian Police .

Iceland welcomes travelers without any pandemic-era entry rules in place, according to Iceland’s COVID-19 website .

Ireland has removed all COVID-19-related entry rules for travel, according to the government .

Italy has lifted all COVID-19-related travel rules, according to the country's National Tourist Board .

Travelers entering Kosovo are not required to show proof of vaccination, according to the U.S. Embassy in Kosovo , but the embassy recommends travelers bring such proof. The country also doesn’t require pre-arrival testing, but the embassy said some airlines may.

Access to public institutions, malls, and indoor dining inside does require proof of vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test for customers over 16.

Latvia has lifted all COVID-19-related travel rules, according to the Latvian tourism board .

Liechtenstein

Liechtenstein, a landlocked country, is accessible through Switzerland or Austria. Switzerland handles all immigration for Liechtenstein. COVID-19-related travel restrictions have been lifted in Liechtenstein, according to the European Union .

Lithuania no longer requires any pre-arrival testing or proof of vaccination to visit, according to the national tourism development agency .

Luxembourg welcomes travelers from all countries, regardless of their vaccination status, according to the U.S. Embassy in Luxembourg . Travelers do not need any pre-arrival COVID-19 tests.

Malta has eliminated all pandemic-related travel restrictions, according to the Malta Tourism Authority .

Moldova does not have any COVID-19-related entry restrictions in place for U.S. travelers, according to the U.S. Embassy in Moldova .

To get to Monaco, most visitors must travel through France. Monaco does not have any pandemic-related travel restrictions in place, according to the government .

Montenegro does not have any COVID-19-related entry rules in place, according to the U.S. Embassy in Montenegro . Face masks are required on public transportation, according to the country’s government .

Netherlands

The Netherlands has lifted COVID-19-related entry rules, according to the government .

North Macedonia

North Macedonia is open to American travelers who are not required to undergo any COVID-related entry requirements, according to the U.S. Embassy in North Macedonia .

Norway has discontinued all COVID-19-related entry restrictions, including pre-arrival testing, according to the government . 

Poland has lifted all pandemic-era entry rules, including for vaccination and testing, according to the government . 

Portugal, including the Azores and Madeira, no longer requires proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter, according to Visit Portugal .

Romania has lifted all pandemic-era entry rules, according to the government . 

San Marino is a landlocked country surrounded by Italy. The country doesn’t have any specific COVID-19-related entry rules, according to the International Air Transport Association .

Serbia has removed all COVID-19-related entry restrictions, according to the U.S. Embassy in Serbia .

Slovakia has lifted all pandemic-related entry rules, according to Slovakia Travel . Travelers no longer have to show any proof of vaccination or tests to enter hotels, restaurants, or other venues.

Slovenia has eliminated pandemic-era travel restrictions, according to the government .

Spain has dropped all COVID-19-related health controls at entry points, according to the government , becoming one of the last European countries to do so. However, the country still asks that travelers from outside the European Union travel with either proof of vaccination administered within 270 days, proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure, proof of a negative rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of departure, or proof they contracted COVID-19 and recovered within 180 days.

Sweden no longer has any COVID-19-related entry restrictions, according to the Public Health Agency of Sweden .

Switzerland

Switzerland has lifted all COVID-19-related entry rules, according to the Federal Office of Public Health .

Turkey is open to foreign travelers and does not have any COVID-19-related entry rules in place, according to the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Turkey .

Visitors to Ukraine must show proof of either vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours, according to the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine . Travelers must also have a health insurance policy to cover the potential costs of COVID-19 treatment.

The U.S. Department of State has currently issued a Level 4: Do Not Travel warning against visiting Ukraine due to the ongoing war and Russian invasion.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has dropped all COVID-19-related entry rules, according to the government .

Vatican City

Vatican City is the world's smallest country and is encircled by the Italian city of Rome. It is open to travelers who are able to enter Italy .

The information in this article reflects that of the publishing time above. However, as statistics and information regarding coronavirus rapidly change, some figures may be different from when this story was originally posted. While we strive to keep our content as up to date as possible, we also recommend visiting sites like the CDC or websites of local health departments.

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What is ETIAS? A guide to Europe’s new entry requirement

For decades, millions of people have been able to travel to Europe with little more than a valid passport and a return ticket. But starting in 2025, that will change. The European Union (E.U.) intends to launch the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) program in 2025, requiring all visa-exempt travelers to obtain pre-clearance to enter 30 European countries.

Fortunately, the ETIAS application process is relatively straightforward, so don’t let it deter you from planning your future European vacation. Here’s what you need to know about ETIAS, including whether or not you need to obtain it.

In this post

What is ETIAS?

Which countries in europe require etias for entry, who needs to get etias, do u.s. citizens need etias to travel to europe, how early should you apply before traveling, your etias application in 3 steps, will your travels to europe be impacted, visa for europe: what if you stay longer than 90 days, how kayak knows what to put in this guide.

Last update : During the last quarter of 2023, the European Union decided to postpone the launch of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) until mid-2025.

The new roadmap for the delivery of the new IT architecture foresees that the Entry/Exit system will be ready to enter into operation in Autumn 2024 and that ETIAS will be ready to enter into operation in Spring 2025. EU Council (from schengenvisainfo.com )

ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System . It’s an electronic travel authorization established by the E.U. that certain travelers will need to obtain in order to enter 30 European countries. ETIAS is not a visa, but simply an authorization for travel . It will be digitally attached to your passport, so you shouldn’t need to present a physical version to a border agent when entering Europe.

While ETIAS is an entry requirement for those countries for many travelers, obtaining one does not guarantee entry into them , as you still must meet other entry requirements, such as having a valid passport.

Expert Tip : Even though ETIAS is digitally attached to your travel document, I would still take a screenshot of or print out your ETIAS approval email, just in case there are technical difficulties.

Why has it been created?

ETIAS is a security measure designed to identify risks among visa-exempt travelers to the E.U. Those risks include security threats, irregular migration and epidemic spread.

When will ETIAS be implemented?

The E.U. has not announced a start date, but it anticipates launching the ETIAS program in 2025 .

How much will ETIAS cost?

The ETIAS application fee is €7 , or approximately $7.50. Travelers younger than 18 or older than 70 are exempt from the application fee.

How long is ETIAS valid?

ETIAS is valid for three years or until the expiration of your travel document attached to ETIAS: whichever comes first. As such, you will not need to apply for ETIAS each time you travel to Europe within that window of validity.

The following countries will add ETIAS to their entry requirements (source: etias.com ):

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Travelers who do not need a visa for Europe will need to obtain ETIAS . That means all travelers from more than 60 visa-exempt countries who are traveling to Europe for a short stay of fewer than 90 days will need ETIAS.

Most U.S. citizens will need ETIAS to travel to Europe. However, U.S. citizens who have received a visa to travel to Europe, such as students or workers, will not need ETIAS . That’s because ETIAS is specifically for visa-exempt travelers.

The E.U. recommends applying for ETIAS before you book your travel to Europe . In other words, you should apply as soon as possible. The ETIAS approvals process is largely automated, and most applicants will be approved within minutes. However, if the E.U. requires you to submit additional documents and/or attend an interview, the process may take up to 30 days.

1. Ensure you have a valid travel document for entry into Europe, such as a passport.

2. Fill out an application on the ETIAS website or ETIAS mobile app. The application asks you questions about your identity, your education and occupation, your travel plans and your history regarding criminal convictions or travels to conflict zones. At this point, you will pay the €7 application fee.

3. Once approved, you will receive a notification via email. Double-check that your information is correct. If there are any mistakes, you will either need to apply for a new ETIAS or request a change to your existing ETIAS, though the latter may take up to 30 days to process.

If you are a U.S. citizen or a citizen of any other visa-exempt country, it is likely that your travels to Europe will be impacted. You will need to apply for ETIAS in advance of your trip. Without this travel authorization, you will not be able to enter 30 European countries.

ETIAS is not a visa , and it is limited to travelers spending up to 90 days within a 180-day period in Europe. If you plan on staying in Europe longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a visa through the embassy of the country in which you plan on spending the majority of your time. If you do not have a visa and you stay in Europe longer than 90 days, you may be subject to fines, travel bans and deportation.

While ETIAS adds an extra step for many individuals traveling to Europe, it’s a fairly straightforward and affordable process. Just be sure to apply well in advance of your trip once the ETIAS program goes into effect in 2025.

As a travel writer, my work takes me all over the world, and I usually take several trips to Europe each year. Part of the job entails being cognizant of my destinations’ entry requirements, so I’ve been monitoring ETIAS closely. I’ve deeply researched ETIAS via the E.U.’s website to bring you the essential information that’s available to the public at this time.

Frequent questions about the new “visa” for Europe

Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about ETIAS.

Yes, most U.S. citizens will need ETIAS in order to travel to Europe. The exception is U.S. citizens who have obtained visas to enter Europe, such as student visas or work visas.

No, ETIAS is not in operation in 2023.

The launch of the ETIAS program was indeed planned for 2024 but has been postponed to mid-2025 . In other words, you will be able to travel to Europe as usual in 2024, but should start to get ready for the upcoming change.

Some travelers need a visa to go to Europe: specifically travelers from visa-required countries or travelers from visa-exempt countries planning to stay in Europe for more than 90 days.

The visa rules will not change due to the implementation of ETIAS. Americans planning to stay in Europe for longer than 90 days need a visa. ETIAS, however, is not a visa. Americans traveling to Europe for up to 90 days will need ETIAS starting sometime in 2025.

Travelers who need a visa for Europe will need to apply via the country in which they plan to spend the majority of their time. Applications typically require a visit to the Consulate of that country in your homeland .

The foregoing article was last updated on the 24th of October 2023. It does not contain legal advice and is for informational purposes only. KAYAK does not guarantee, and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, currency or completeness of any of the information contained in this article and/or any of the content linked to within it. Always check the official government website of your departure and arrival destinations prior to travel for up-to-date information. Sources: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en https://etias.com/ https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/schengen.html https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/schengen-borders-and-visa/smart-borders/european-travel-information-authorisation-system_en https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/schengen-borders-and-visa/visa-policy/where-and-how-apply-schengen-visa_en

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Does Europe Have Travel Restrictions? Here’s Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

A s we stand in the starting blocks of another summer high season in Europe, now is a great time to refresh yourself with the basics of European travel , and there is nothing more fundamental to the international travel experience than the entry requirements.  

The last few years have seen a steady swirl of news stories about changing entry requirements, visas and fees around the continent. Many of the stories were related to the pandemic, but they get at an oft-forgotten larger truth: things are not as simple as just hopping on a plane and showing up. 

Whether you are a travel advisor with clients about to head to Europe or a traveler reading this while waiting for your ride to the airport to show up, make sure you are up to date on the following travel regulations and restrictions before you head across the Atlantic.

Say Hello to Schengen

Before we dive into European entry requirements, we have to talk about the Schengen Area. Not already familiar with the Schengen Area? Well, now is a good time to change that because Schengen is going to come up often in this article—and be in the news often come 2025.

The basics: the Schengen Area is a travel zone encompassing 29 European countries, which essentially renders borders between them meaningless from a travel perspective. The zone was created during the 1985 Schengen Agreement and reinforced by the 1990 Schengen Convention, permanently transforming European travel.

In short, we have the Schengen Agreement and Schengen Area that it created to thank for the ability to hop on a train in Germany, wind through the Alps of Austria, and arrive in Italy without a passport check, which is a major selling point of European travel in general. 

It is important to remember that while similar, the Schengen Area travel zone is entirely different from the European Union. Of the 27 EU member nations, 25 are included in the Schengen Area, with Cyprus and Ireland remaining outside the zone. For the record, Cyprus is expected to join Schengen one day, while Ireland looks set to keep its current separate entry policy for the foreseeable future. 

In addition to the 25 EU nations, the four non-EU nations of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland are included in the zone, too. Micronations like Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City are de facto members too, as they have border agreements with Spain, France and Italy. 

Other notable areas not included in the Schengen Area besides Ireland and Cyprus include the United Kingdom, Turkey, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Albania. 

Long story short: the Schengen Area is a huge travel zone that allows you to treat all 29 nations as "one country" from a passport entry perspective. 

Passport Particulars

Speaking of those passports, it probably won't come as too much of a surprise to know that you're going to need a passport to be allowed into Europe. Therefore, make sure to apply for yours well before your trip, as wait times can be unpredictable. 

But things aren't as simple as simply remembering to pack it and that brings us to a major European travel requirement you need to be aware of:

Your passport must have validity for the entire period you will be in Europe.

And in some cases, more. For example, if you're entering the Schengen Area, you must have at least six months of validity remaining on your passport.

Yes, even if you're going to be in the Schengen Area for only two weeks (the maximum stay is 90 days), you must have six months available. So, for example, if your passport expired on December 31st, a two-week trip in September would be off the cards, even though it had several months of validity left. 

This holds particular significance for kids under 16, given that their passports remain valid for just five years, as opposed to adults whose passports are valid for 10 years. 

If you’re working with a travel advisor (and you should always work with a travel advisor!), they will likely catch any potential passport pitfalls. If you aren't, then check, re-check and triple-check your travel dates and how much validity your passport has left. 

For the countries that aren't in the Schengen Area like the United Kingdom, Ireland and nations in the Balkans, you will generally just need to have validity for the duration of your stay (which varies from 90 days to six months depending on the country), although you should always check to be sure. Make note that Turkey requires six months of validity just like countries in the Schengen Area. 

Soon though, you won't be able to just show up unannounced with a passport with plenty of validity on it and be admitted to the Schengen Area, and that's because of ETIAS.

The State of ETIAS Affairs

It may sound like a dreamy Greek Island, but ETIAS is the name of a new requirement that Americans (and many others) will soon have to meet to visit most of Europe.  

While it won't affect travelers in 2024, once it's operational, ETIAS will become a very important part of the European travel picture, so it doesn't hurt to get familiar with it now.

ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System and it has been in the works for nearly a decade. The scheme was scheduled to roll out this year but it has once again been delayed and this time until some time in 2025. When ETIAS finally kicks in, Americans (and many others) will no longer have the luxury of relying solely on their passports for European visits and instead will need pre-approval to enter the Schengen Area plus Cyprus.

The approval will come in the form of an approved ETIAS application, a process that should unfold similarly to the ESTA process that visitors to the USA have been using for a while now, meaning it will be completed online and should only take a few minutes. 

The application fee for ETIAS will be 7 Euros ($7.48) for individuals aged 18 to 70, while it will be free for other age groups and family members of EU citizens. Approved ETIAS authorizations will be valid for three years.  

Like the Schengen Area, ETIAS will not be necessary to visit Ireland, the United Kingdom and many others, but you should be aware that the UK has a similar system in the works. 

Again, this is not a requirement yet, but it is on its way. 

Return to Sender

While this may not apply to a large swath of people, be aware that you may be required to show proof of a return flight when entering the Schengen Area or other European countries like Ireland or the United Kingdom. 

If you don't have a return flight and were just planning on going with the flow, it is possible, depending on the border agent, that you may be required to show proof of financial funds that would allow you to purchase a return flight.

The Venetian Experiment

You've arrived in Europe and have plenty of validity on your passport, now you can show up anywhere and have the time of your life, right? That's true for 99.9 percent of the continent, with one major exception: Venice. 

Recently, Venice became the first city in the world to impose restrictions on day-trippers, with a new five Euro (approximately $5.34) "access fee" applying on certain days in 2024. 

You are exempt from the fees if you are spending the night, but you still have to download a code and carry it with you to prove that you are exempt. 

Will this practice spread around the continent? Something similar is already being talked about at Lake Como , and you can rest assured that many destinations will be watching to see how things unfold in Venice.

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Travel restrictions are back in Europe for U.S. visitors, at least in some places.

In removing the U.S. from a list of safe countries, the European Union opened the door to a new web of bans, quarantines and testing requirements.

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By Elian Peltier

• Sept. 8, 2021

Italy now requires travelers from the United States to take a test before arrival, and unvaccinated American visitors must isolate for five days. Sweden is barring all nonessential U.S. visitors. The Netherlands says vaccinated travelers must isolate after arriving from the United States — and unvaccinated ones are not welcome.

In removing the United States from a safe list of countries whose residents can travel without coronavirus testing or quarantine requirements, the European Union last week opened the door to myriad rules, restrictions and hurdles for travelers, with the bloc’s member countries implementing different measures.

The surge of coronavirus deaths and hospitalizations in the United States has led some countries — including Bulgaria, Italy, the Netherlands and Sweden — to enforce new obstacles, and the list could grow.

The E.U. suggestion to reimpose restrictions on unvaccinated U.S. travelers is not binding, however, and many European governments have yet to act on it. Some may even choose to ignore it entirely, creating confusion for travelers.

For questions about requirements in a given European Union member state, the best answers can usually be found on the website of its U.S. Embassy. Most, including France, Spain and Germany, still welcome travelers from the United States without much hassle.

It is different for a few others, and that’s where the confusion starts.

For instance, any traveler from the United States, no matter their nationality, is prohibited from entering Bulgaria “unless they meet an exception,” according to the U.S. Embassy in Sofia . Those exceptions include students with a visa, citizens from an E.U. country, and foreign officials or medical professionals.

In Italy, meanwhile, the U.S. Embassy in Rome states that vaccinated travelers must take a virus test 72 hours before arrival, and that unvaccinated ones must isolate for five days. France has no travel restrictions on American visitors, but a “health pass,” based on testing or proof of vaccination, is needed to access cultural venues, restaurants or bars, among other places.

These varying measures, which can appear dizzying to non-Europeans, reflect a reality that the pandemic has only amplified: As much as the European Union strives to present a unified front on many issues, the bloc is made of 27 member countries with diverging — sometimes competing — interests, and facing different epidemiological situations .

After the European Union closed its external borders in March last year, it urged member states to reopen to U.S. travelers and some others in June , hoping that a revival of tourism would boost E.U. economies.

Yet some countries had already moved ahead, while others waited for the recommendations from E.U. officials. A similar scenario is at play with the new travel guidelines. And the hurdles don’t only affect travelers from the United States or other non-European countries; some member states have implemented new measures for travelers coming from other E.U. countries, too.

Overall, the European Union has fared better than the United States in vaccinations : 70 percent of the E.U. adult population has been fully inoculated, compared with 64 percent in the United States.

And while the more transmissible Delta variant of the virus is becoming dominant in Europe , case numbers across most of the continent have not yet resurged to the levels seen in the United States .

Yet just as the virus’ spread varies across U.S. states, E.U. member countries are seeing divergent outbreaks . More than 83 percent of Belgium’s adult population has been fully vaccinated against the coronavirus, for instance, but only 20 percent have been inoculated in Bulgaria, which has one of the highest death rates in the world and has lately faced a surge of hospitalizations and deaths.

Elian Peltier is a reporter in the Brussels bureau of The New York Times, covering the European Union and Belgium. More about Elian Peltier

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Visas and entry requirements in europe and the schengen area.

This page is for Australians travelling to Europe.

Read this page to learn about:

• the Schengen Area
• entry and exit to the Schengen Area
• other European countries with visa waivers
• non-Schengen European countries

The Australian Government doesn't issue visas for other countries. We can't provide final information on border rules. Ask your destination's high commission, embassy or consulate for details before you travel.

The Schengen Area

The Schengen Area is made up of 27 European countries with common border rules. It lets travellers move freely between member countries without

• going through border controls
• getting a visa for each country.

The members of the Schengen Area are:

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• The Netherlands
• Switzerland

Bulgaria  and  Romania  partially joined the Schengen area on 31 March.  Border checks should have ceased for air or sea travel  between Bulgaria, Romania, and other Schengen Area countries. Checks are still undertaken for land-based travel. Stays in Bulgaria and Romania now count towards your total visa-free stay in the Schengen Area (see below).

Entry and exit in the Schengen Area

Australians can travel visa-free in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. Your travel must be for:

• business purposes
• visiting friends and family
• tourism and holidays
• cultural and sports events
• official visit
• medical reasons
• short-term study

Apply at the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country where you'll stay the longest. If you're staying for the same length of time in each country, apply at the embassy of the country you'll visit first.

You'll need to apply for a visa if:

• you're planning to stay for more than 90 days
• your reason for travel changes, and you no longer qualify for visa-free travel.

You'll need to apply outside the country you want a visa for.

Calculating your 90/180 days

Calculating your visa-free days can be complicated. The European Commission provides a calculator to help you track your visa-free days .

• The 180 days isn't fixed in time. It's calculated backwards from today.
• Your 90 days are calculated from your first day in the Schengen Area within the 180 days.
• If you leave and return within 180 days, your last stay will count towards the 90-day maximum.
• If you use up your visa-free days, you must leave until you accumulate more or apply for a visa.
• You may be fined or banned from the Schengen Area if you overstay your 90 days.

Example You arrive in Spain on 18 March. You fly to the UK on 21 April and stay there until the 29th. On 30 April, you travel to Greece and stay until 23 June. Your trip was 97 days, but only 90 were in the Schengen Area. You can't re-enter the Area until at least 14 September, when the Spanish leg of your trip falls outside your 180 days. If you re-enter on 14 September, you can only stay another 35 days as your time in Greece still counts towards your current 90 days. If you re-enter on 22 September, you can stay another 90 days, as you haven't been in the Area in the past 180 days .

Entering and exiting the Schengen Area

You must show a valid passport when entering the Schengen Area.

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave.

Make sure you get a clear entry stamp in your passport when you enter the Schengen Area for the first time. Without a stamp, you could be fined or detained.

Some countries need you to register within 3 days of arrival.

See our destination-specific travel advice for entry and exit details for each country. Check the European Commission for information on temporary border controls .

These visa rules only apply when travelling on your Australian passport . If you're a dual national travelling on your other passport, check the rules for that nationality.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is an electronic security system. It will do a security check before you can enter participating European countries . ETIAS is expected to start in mid-2025 if the new system is working.

You won't need an ETIAS for EU countries who aren't taking part in the program.

Other European countries with visa waivers

There are other European countries where you can travel visa-free. Travel to these countries does not count towards your 90 days for Schengen Area travel.

Countries can change their border rules at short notice. Before you travel, ask your destination's nearest embassy or consulate for the latest rules.

Visa waiver agreements with Australia

Australia has visa waiver agreements with several countries in the Schengen Area. These agreements may allow you to spend 60 to 90 days in the country for tourism.

Visa waiver agreement countries include:

Using visa waiver agreements with Schengen visa-free arrangements is complex. Each country operates the visa waiver in its own way.

Most countries need you to use the visa waiver at the end of your Schengen Area travel.

Visa-free tourism programs in non-Schengen countries

Some European countries outside the Schengen Area allow you to enter visa-free for tourism. Most let you stay up to 90 days. Some are for longer. See our country advisories for details on border rules.

• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• North Macedonia (Republic of North Macedonia)
• United Kingdom

Non-Schengen European countries

Many European countries are not part of the Schengen Area. Non-Schengen countries have their own border rules. These countries include:

Ask these countries' high commission, embassy or consulate for visa information.

• General advice on  visas .
• Before you go, get the right travel insurance .
• Read about Australia's 11 reciprocal health care agreements .
• The Schengen Area explained

Related content

Many Australians hold two or more nationalities. If you're travelling to the country of your other nationality, find out how your citizenship can impact you.

Foreign governments often require you to get a visa before they let you enter. This page provides general advice and information about visas overseas.

New requirements for Americans traveling to Europe postponed until 2025

Americans eyed upcoming travel to European destinations slightly differently due to news of a requirement that was set to start in 2024 for U.S. passport holders. But now, EU officials have postponed the European Travel Information and Authorisation System ( ETIAS ) launch until spring of 2025.

SchengenVisaInfo.com, a website dedicated to the world's largest visa-free zone where 27 European countries abolished their internal borders known as the Schengen Area, first reported that an EU official confirmed ETIAS won't go live until May 2025, "due to continued delays with the introduction of the related Entry-Exit System (EES), which needs to be operational before ETIAS can be implemented."

An official for the European Union did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment.

What to know about ETIAS for US travelers

If you previously traveled to Europe without a visa, you will now need to apply for authorization through the ETIAS , before visiting.

Today, American travelers have visa-free access to 184 global destinations, according to the Henley Passport Index . And while the U.S. passport is currently ranked eighth-most powerful passport to own, that could be set to shift when the European Union adds its new documentation requirements for U.S. visitors.

The application form, which will be available on the official ETIAS website as well as a mobile application, has a fee of 7 euros or $7.79 U.S. dollars. All communication is done by email.

Once you are approved for travel, the authorization entitles visitors to stay in European countries that require ETIAS for up to 90 days within any 180-day period and travelers must be in possession of a valid ETIAS during their entire stay.

Related Articles

MORE: New warning issued for rebooking air travel after delays, cancellations

According to ETIAS, most applications should be processed within minutes, but in case an application takes longer, decisions will be sent within four days or up to 14 days if the applicant is asked to provide additional documentation.

The European Union encourages travelers to apply for an ETIAS authorization "well in advance of your planned journey."

Confirmation of application submission will be sent on email with a unique number that is needed for future reference.

Upon receiving ETIAS travel authorization, travelers are to ensure that their name, passport number and other information is correct because any mistake will prevent them from crossing the border.

If an application is refused, the email will include the reasons for the decision along with information about how to appeal.

ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years, according to the EU, or until the travel document you used in your application expires, whichever comes first.

MORE: European heat wave breaking records with little relief in sight

The ETIAS authorization is linked to a person's travel document -- such as a U.S. passport -- and both documents will be needed to board a flight, bus or ship to enter any of the European countries that require ETIAS.

Similar to international border requirements with a passport, the ETIAS authorization doesn't guarantee automatic right of entry. "Border guards will verify that you meet the entry conditions" and anyone who does not meet the conditions "will be refused entry," according to the EU.

Click here to learn more about the process from the European Union.

An earlier version of this story was originally published on July 21, 2023.

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Legistative reasearch analyst on international trade, *in order to be eligible for consideration, qualified applicants must send a cover letter and resume to:, state of arizona, diana clay, director of research staff, [email protected], ref job#gm01. eoe*, house of representatives, 1700 west washington, phoenix, arizona 85007, *travel requirements will include unanticipated trips to washington d.c. and other locations within , north america, south america, and europe for international trade, foreign affair forums, conferences, and events*, annual salary: $78,479 , this position will remain open until june 12, 2024  .

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