Planning a trip to Europe in 2025? There are some significant changes you need to know about. The European Union is rolling out new travel requirements that will affect millions of visitors, including the long-awaited ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System).
Whether you're a visa-free traveler or need a Schengen visa, this guide covers all the changes coming in 2025 and how to prepare for them.
Key Changes at a Glance
What's Changing in 2025
| Change | Who It Affects | When |
|---|---|---|
| ETIAS Launch | Visa-free nationalities (US, UK, Australia, etc.) | 2025 |
| Digital Visa Applications | All Schengen visa applicants | Rolling out 2025 |
| Increased Visa Fees | All Schengen visa applicants | Already in effect |
| EES (Entry/Exit System) | All non-EU travelers | 2025 |
| Biometric Requirements | All travelers | 2025 |
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is a new electronic travel authorization for visitors from visa-exempt countries. Think of it as Europe's version of the US ESTA or Australia's ETA.
It's not a visa — it's a pre-travel authorization that allows EU authorities to screen travelers before they arrive. The process is entirely online and most applications will be approved within minutes.
ETIAS Quick Facts
Cost: €7 (free for ages 18 and under, or 70+)
Validity: 3 years or until passport expires
Multiple entries allowed
Linked to your passport electronically
Apply online — no embassy visit needed
Who Needs ETIAS?
ETIAS is required for travelers from visa-exempt countries who want to visit the Schengen Area for short stays (up to 90 days). This includes citizens of:
- Americas: United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Chile, and more
- Asia-Pacific: Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia
- Europe (non-EU): United Kingdom, Ukraine (biometric passport holders)
- Other: UAE, Israel, Brunei, and 50+ additional countries
Important Distinction
ETIAS is NOT for travelers who need a Schengen visa. If your nationality requires a visa to enter Europe (such as India, China, or Philippines), you will continue to apply for a regular Schengen visa at the embassy or consulate.
ETIAS vs Schengen Visa: What's the Difference?
ETIAS vs Schengen Visa
| Feature | ETIAS | Schengen Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Who needs it | Visa-free nationalities | Visa-required nationalities |
| Cost | €7 | €90 (€35 for children) |
| Validity | 3 years | Usually 6 months |
| Application | Online only | Embassy/consulate visit |
| Processing time | Minutes to 96 hours | 15-45 days |
| Documents needed | Passport, email, payment | Photos, itinerary, finances, etc. |
How to Apply for ETIAS
The ETIAS application process is straightforward and entirely online. Here's what you'll need:
- Valid passport from an ETIAS-eligible country
- Email address for confirmation and updates
- Credit or debit card for the €7 fee
- 10-15 minutes to complete the application
ETIAS Application Steps
- Visit the official ETIAS website (or apply through DoVisa)
- Enter your passport details and personal information
- Answer security and health-related questions
- Pay the €7 fee online
- Receive your authorization via email (usually within minutes)
Apply Before You Book
While most ETIAS applications are approved instantly, some may take up to 96 hours (or longer if additional screening is needed). Apply at least a week before booking non-refundable flights.
Schengen Visa Updates for 2025
If you need a traditional Schengen visa, here are the key changes:
Increased Visa Fees
Schengen visa fees increased in 2024 and remain in effect:
- Adults: €90 (up from €80)
- Children (6-12): €45 (up from €40)
- Children under 6: Free
Digital Application Pilot
The EU is piloting a digital Schengen visa application system that will eventually allow applicants to submit documents online and reduce embassy visits. Key features:
- Online form submission from anywhere
- Digital document uploads
- Online payment of visa fees
- Reduced need for in-person appointments
- Digital visa (no sticker in passport) coming soon
Digital Visa Timeline
The full digital Schengen visa system is expected to be operational by 2026-2027. In 2025, expect pilot programs in select countries. The traditional sticker visa process remains the standard for now.
Understanding the 90/180 Day Rule
The 90/180 day rule remains unchanged but is worth reviewing. It states that you can stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.
Common Mistake
The 180-day period is rolling, not fixed. It's not 90 days per calendar half-year. Each day you check, you look back 180 days and count how many days you've spent in Schengen. Tools like the EU's Short Stay Calculator can help.
The New Entry/Exit System (EES)
The Entry/Exit System (EES) will launch alongside ETIAS. This automated system will:
- Record entry and exit dates electronically (no more passport stamps)
- Track your remaining days in the Schengen Area automatically
- Alert you and border officers if you're approaching the 90-day limit
- Capture biometric data (fingerprints, facial image) at first entry
No More Counting Stamps
Good news: EES will make it easier to track your days. Border officers will have accurate records, and you can check your remaining days through an official portal.
Implementation Timeline
Here's when these changes take effect:
2025 Timeline
- 2025 (Expected): ETIAS and EES launch for all Schengen border crossings
- 2025: Biometric registration required at first entry for non-EU nationals
- 2025-2026: Digital Schengen visa pilot expands
- 2026-2027: Full digital visa system expected
Grace Period
When ETIAS launches, there will likely be a transition period where travelers without authorization may still be admitted (but processed manually). However, we strongly recommend having your ETIAS before travel to avoid delays.
How to Prepare
- Check your passport validity: Ensure it's valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from Schengen, with 2 blank pages
- Determine if you need ETIAS or a visa: Use the DoVisa checker to confirm requirements for your nationality
- Apply early: Once ETIAS is live, apply before booking flights
- Track your days: Use the EU's calculator to ensure you're within the 90/180 rule
- Stay informed: Follow official EU sources and DoVisa for launch announcements
Frequently Asked Questions
When exactly does ETIAS start?
I'm a US citizen. Do I still need ETIAS if I'm just transiting through Europe?
What happens if my ETIAS is denied?
Can I travel to all EU countries with ETIAS?
I have a criminal record. Can I still get ETIAS?
Will ETIAS replace the Schengen visa?
Is there a minimum age for ETIAS?
What if I get a new passport after receiving ETIAS?
Stay Updated with DoVisa
European travel requirements are changing, but with proper preparation, your trip will go smoothly. DoVisa monitors ETIAS and Schengen visa developments and will help you navigate the new requirements.
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Comments(10)
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Finally, clear information about ETIAS! I've been confused about whether I need it as a US citizen. Thanks for the comparison table showing the difference from a regular Schengen visa.
The 90/180 rule explanation is perfect. I made the mistake of thinking it was 90 days per half-year and almost overstayed. The rolling period catches so many people off guard.
As a UK citizen post-Brexit, this hits hard. We used to just walk through EU immigration and now we need ETIAS plus the 90/180 restriction. At least €7 isn't bad compared to what EU citizens pay for UK visas.
Question: I'm Italian but my wife is American. Does she need ETIAS when traveling with me?
The EES system sounds helpful actually. No more worrying about faded passport stamps or losing count of days. Digital tracking will make it much clearer.
I travel to Europe 4-5 times a year for work. Happy that ETIAS is valid for 3 years! Much better than having to reapply constantly.
For those of us who need Schengen visas, it's frustrating to see visa-free travelers complaining about €7 ETIAS when we pay €90 and spend weeks gathering documents 😅
Been waiting for ETIAS to launch for years now. They keep delaying it. Anyone know if the 2025 date is actually confirmed?
Will ETIAS work for Eurostar from London to Paris? Or is that considered a different border crossing?
The biometric collection at first entry concerns me a bit. How long do they keep the fingerprint data?