ETIAS status

Is ETIAS live yet?

The short version, the timeline, and what (if anything) to do this week.

Last reviewed: 27 May 2026

Short answer

No. ETIAS is not yet in effect. Applications are not open. The European Commission expects launch in Q4 2026.

Get notified when ETIAS opens Source: official EU page →

Expected timeline

What to expect

Source: official EU page →

1Live now
Today
Now
ETIAS is not open. No application is required. Travel as normal.
2
Launch
Q4 2026 (expected)
ETIAS becomes operational. Applications open through the official EU website.
3
Transition
After launch
A transition window is expected. Enforcement is phased; check official sources.
4
Mandatory
Subject to official confirmation
Visa-exempt travellers will need ETIAS for covered European countries.

1
Today
Live now
Now
ETIAS is not open. No application is required. Travel as normal.
2
Launch
Q4 2026 (expected)
ETIAS becomes operational. Applications open through the official EU website.
3
Transition
After launch
A transition window is expected. Enforcement is phased; check official sources.
4
Mandatory
Subject to official confirmation
Visa-exempt travellers will need ETIAS for covered European countries.

Status at a glance

Status today	Not live
Applications open	No
Expected launch	Q4 2026 (expected)
Listed official fee	€20
Validity	3 years
Stay limit	90 days in any 180

Some travellers may be exempt from the fee. Final rules are set by the European Commission. See the official EU page →

What to do right now

If you’re travelling to the Schengen area in 2026, travel as normal — nothing changes yet.
Get a launch alert below and we’ll email you when applications genuinely open.
Be very cautious of any site asking for passport details or money for ETIAS before the official system has opened.

Get notified when ETIAS opens

One email when applications open or the official timeline materially changes.

Common questions

Is ETIAS open today?

No. Applications are not open yet. Any site currently accepting ETIAS applications is not the official EU service.

When will applications open?

Expected in Q4 2026. The European Commission has said it will give at least six months’ notice of the precise launch date.

When does ETIAS become mandatory?

After launch, a transition period is expected before ETIAS becomes mandatory for visa-exempt travellers. Specifics may change — check the official EU source for the current position.

How much will ETIAS cost?

The listed official fee is €20. Some travellers may be exempt. ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires.

What should I do right now?

Nothing. Sign up for a launch alert if you want one — otherwise carry on travelling as normal.