The short version (for UK/visa-exempt travellers)

• ETIAS launch window: Last quarter of 2026 (exact start date to be confirmed). A transitional period and a subsequent grace period will follow, giving travellers time to adapt.
• What ETIAS is (and isn’t): A pre-travel authorisation, not a visa, required for short stays (typically up to 90/180 days) in 30 European countries that adopt ETIAS. Valid 3 years (or until passport expiry).
• Fee: €20 for most applicants 18–70; under 18 and over 70 are fee-exempt (certain EU family members also exempt).
• Processing time: Usually minutes; can take up to 96 hours, and in exceptional cases up to 30 days if extra checks are needed—apply well ahead.
• Only apply on the official site/app: The EU stresses there is one official ETIAS website—avoid intermediaries and inflated fees.

Plan ahead (what to do now)

• If travelling from now to early April 2026: Build extra time at the border while EES ramps up; first entry after 12 Oct 2025 requires biometric capture. Kids under 12 won’t give fingerprints.
• For trips in late 2026 and beyond: Expect ETIAS to begin in Q4 2026, then a transitional and grace period before full enforcement. Set a reminder to apply once the EU publishes the exact start date.
• Checklist: Passport valid 3+ months beyond intended departure; use the same passport you apply with; watch for the EU’s launch announcement.

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