UK citizens traveling to the European Union (EU) next summer will need to pay a €7 visa-waiver fee as new border checks and entry requirements are set to be implemented. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will require travelers from visa-exempt countries, including the UK, the US, Australia, and Canada, to apply for a waiver before entering the Schengen Area, which comprises 27 EU member states along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
Ylva Johansson, the EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, confirmed that ETIAS is expected to come into effect by May 2025. The system, similar to the US ESTA, will be valid for three years or until the passport expires, and aims to enhance security by pre-screening travelers.
In addition to ETIAS, the EU will launch its long-awaited Entry and Exit System (EES) on November 10. The EES will mandate biometric data collection, including fingerprints and facial scans, from travelers at border crossings. This measure is designed to prevent the entry of individuals using counterfeit passports and will also result in additional checks for travelers at the Port of Dover, Le Shuttle in Folkestone, and the Eurostar at London’s St Pancras.
The introduction of the EES has faced several delays since its initial planned rollout in 2022, with the most recent date of October 6 postponed due to concerns over airport facility readiness. Johansson confirmed this new launch date following extensive discussions with member states and stakeholders.
The rollout of ETIAS is anticipated to follow six months after the EES, potentially impacting travelers planning trips during the May half-term holidays.
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