Travellers can visit Europe with an ETIAS visa waiver that can be applied for online. It is available to those who wish to visit a Schengen member country and requires applicants to complete and submit an application form online prior to travelling to Europe.
Those visiting the Schengen Area for business or tourism purposes as of 2026 will need an approved ETIAS travel authorisation prior to departure. Failure to obtain an approved ETIAS could result in entry refusal from the Schengen member country or legal consequences.
Read about the type of information that must be completed when filling out an ETIAS application form and how ETIAS reviews application information and completes security checks.
ETIAS application form information
Applicants are expected to provide essential information such as personal details, passport details, and travel details. The ETIAS application form will also include security questions.
ETIAS security check
Obtaining an ETIAS will be simple thanks to the online form. The applicant’s email will be used as the primary contact for the request—all updates, notifications and the ETIAS itself will be sent to this email address.
All data will be cross-checked and applications will be run through specialised security checks using databases such as SIS, Europol data, Interpol data, and VIS. All applications will be passed through the ETIAS screening system.
This new ETIAS travel authorization system has been created to strengthen EU security and improve internal security. ETIAS is expected to contribute to general security and a more efficient management of migration and border security.
As of 2026, it will be compulsory to apply for an ETIAS when travelling to a Schengen member country. Those who fail to apply for an ETIAS prior to departure could face serious legal consequences and are likely to be denied entry to the respective Schengen country.
