Starting in 2026, travelers will need ETIAS to enter Europe. Learn who must apply, how to request it, and what the €20 fee covers.

Traveling to Spain or other European countries within the Schengen Area has been easy for millions of visitors from Latin America, the United States, Canada, Asia, and many other regions. Many nationalities can currently enter only with their passport, without needing a visa. However, this is going to change soon.

The European Union has confirmed the implementation of ETIAS, a mandatory pre-travel authorization that will be required starting at the end of 2026.

In this guide, we explain what ETIAS is, who must apply, how much it costs, how it works at the border, and what exceptions exist. If you plan to travel to Europe in the coming years, this information is essential to avoid last-minute issues.

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What is ETIAS and why is Europe implementing it?

ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System. It works similarly to:

• The ESTA required to travel to the United States

• The eTA required to enter Canada

ETIAS is not a visa. It is a quick online authorization required before departure.

Its goals are to:

• Improve border security

• Identify travelers before arrival

• Reduce illegal stays and identity fraud

• Modernize electronic border controls in the EU

Without ETIAS approval, airlines will not allow boarding.

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Who must apply for ETIAS?

ETIAS will be required for travelers who:

1. Do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Area, and

2. Travel as tourists or for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days).

This includes countries such as:

Argentina
Mexico
Brazil
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Panama
Uruguay
Paraguay
Costa Rica
Dominican Republic
United States
Canada
United Kingdom (post-Brexit)
And more than 60 others.

If today you can travel to Spain without a visa, you will need ETIAS starting in 2026.

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How much does ETIAS cost?

The European Union has established the fee at:

€20 per traveler

Payment methods will include:

• Credit/debit card

• Approved online payment systems

Who is exempt from paying?

• Travelers under 18

• Travelers over 70

However, even if they are exempt from the fee, they must still obtain the authorization.

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When will ETIAS become mandatory?

Current EU estimates indicate that ETIAS will become mandatory in late 2026.

Estimated start date: October 2026
(This timing has been postponed in the past, but this is the latest official forecast.)

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How will ETIAS be requested?

The process will be entirely online.

1. Access the official ETIAS website (to be announced by the EU)

2. Complete the application form with personal and travel details

3. Upload passport information

4. Pay the €20 fee (if applicable)

5. Receive the authorization electronically

Most approvals are expected to be issued within minutes or hours.

No paper document will be issued. The authorization will be digitally linked to your passport.

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How long is ETIAS valid?

ETIAS will be valid for 3 years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

If you renew your passport, you must apply again.

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Important: ETIAS does not guarantee entry into Spain

Even with ETIAS approval, you must still meet the standard border control requirements, such as:

• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation, invitation letter, etc.)

• Sufficient financial means for your stay

• Travel insurance

• Return or onward flight ticket

• No entry bans or alerts in European databases

If you fail to provide these when requested, entry may be denied, even with ETIAS.

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Who does not need ETIAS?

• Travelers who require a Schengen visa

• Foreigners who already have a residence permit (TIE) in Spain or another EU country

• EU citizens

If you hold a Spanish residence card (TIE), you are exempt.

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Practical examples

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What happens if I travel without ETIAS once it is required?

You will not be allowed to board your flight.
Airlines are obligated to verify ETIAS approval before departure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is ETIAS a visa?
No. It is a pre-travel authorization, faster and simpler than a visa.

2. When should I apply?
Before your trip. Ideally at least 72 hours before flying.

3. What if my ETIAS is denied?
You may need to request a consular visa. Denial often indicates past immigration alerts.

4. How many times can I enter Europe with ETIAS?
Unlimited, as long as you respect the 90/180 rule.

5. Can I work in Spain with ETIAS?
No. ETIAS is strictly for tourism and short stays, not for employment.

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Conclusion and professional help

ETIAS will change the way millions of travelers enter Europe. The authorization will be simple, but it is essential to understand the entry rules to avoid problems at the border.

If you need guidance about travel, short-stay rules, visas, or residence permits in Spain:

Schedule your consultation with an immigration lawyer:
https://www.visalimmigration.com/en/consulting

WhatsApp (messages only): +34 618 702 253
More information: www.visalimmigration.com