All News
Left arrow

ETIAS Delayed: Travelers Won’t Need EU Travel Permit Until 2027

Travelers from visa-free countries, including the UK, won’t need ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) until April 2027 at the earliest. The EU’s Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs confirmed the delay. ETIAS will only begin six months after the Entry/Exit System (EES) is fully operational.

The EES, designed to replace passport stamps with biometric checks, will launch gradually from October 2025. At first, only 10% of border crossings will use the system. Travelers will still get passport stamps during this phase. Biometric checks will become mandatory after 60 days. By April 2026, all Schengen borders should fully operate under EES.

ETIAS Becomes Mandatory in April 2027

Once the EES is in place, ETIAS will launch in October 2026 with a six-month transitional period. During this time, travelers can apply but won’t need ETIAS to enter Europe. From April 2027, ETIAS will be compulsory for most visitors. First-time travelers after this date will get a six-month grace period, meaning ETIAS won’t be fully enforced until October 2027.

What ETIAS Means for Travelers

Often called a “Euro visa”, ETIAS will require passport holders from 59 visa-free countries to apply online and pay €7 (£6) for a three-year travel permit. This rule includes British travelers visiting Schengen countries, except Ireland and Cyprus.

Key Dates for EES and ETIAS
  • October 2025 – EES launches at 10% of border crossings
  • January 2026 – Biometrics become mandatory at participating borders
  • April 2026 – EES fully operational across the Schengen Area
  • October 2026 – ETIAS launches but remains optional
  • April 2027 – ETIAS becomes mandatory for most travelers
  • October 2027 – ETIAS becomes fully compulsory
How This Affects UK Travelers

The UK travel industry has spent over £100 million preparing for EES. Eurostar, Eurotunnel, and UK ports have upgraded systems for the new rules. However, passport stamps will remain until EES is fully functional.

With these delays, visa-free travel to Europe stays the same until 2027. But travelers should expect longer processing times as the EU gradually rolls out the new systems.