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Do children need ETIAS?

Per-traveller ETIAS rules for babies, children and teenagers travelling to Europe.

By the ETIAS Pro editorial teamChecked against official EU sourcesHow we keep this accurateLast reviewed: 7 September 2026

Quick answer

Yes, every traveller, including babies and children, will need their own ETIAS authorisation once ETIAS becomes mandatory. The official €20 fee is waived for travellers under 18, but the application still needs to be submitted.

Do children need ETIAS?

Yes. ETIAS applies on a per-passport basis. A two-year-old travelling on her own UK or US passport will need her own ETIAS, just like every other passenger on the flight.

Can a parent apply?

Yes. The EU expects to allow a parent or legal guardian to submit a child’s ETIAS application using the child’s passport details. The adult applicant captures the relationship in the form; the authorisation itself is still linked to the child’s passport.

What documents are needed?

  • The child’s own valid passport.
  • The child’s full name, date and place of birth.
  • Parent/guardian contact details (email, phone).
  • Information about the first ETIAS country of arrival.

Family travel examples

A British family of four flying from London to Mallorca in 2027 needs four ETIAS authorisations: two for the parents (at €20 each) and two for the children (expected to be free under the under-18 exemption, but still required).

An American family of three travelling to Paris will need three ETIASes, including the toddler.

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ETIAS for children: FAQs

Do children need ETIAS?

Yes, each traveller, including minors and infants, will need their own ETIAS authorisation once the system is live. Travellers under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the official €20 fee but still need to apply.

How much will ETIAS cost?

The official ETIAS fee is €20, set by EU regulation. Travellers under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the fee, though they will still need an ETIAS. Private services may charge a separate, optional service fee for help with the application.

How long will ETIAS last?

An approved ETIAS is valid for up to 3 years, or until the passport it is linked to expires, whichever comes first. It allows short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period within ETIAS countries.

What if my passport expires before my ETIAS does?

ETIAS is expected to be linked to a single passport. If that passport expires, your ETIAS expires with it. After renewing your passport, you will need to apply for a new ETIAS using the new passport details.

Related pages

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