No ETIAS Required in 2025 – Good News for European Travel
Here’s a little gift for your wanderlust:
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)—originally set to launch in May 2025—has been postponed until 2026.
Big thanks to Candice for the tip on this story!
If you’ve been eyeing a European retreat, tour, or personal getaway in 2025, this is great news.
✅ No ETIAS needed next year.
✅ U.S. passport holders can still travel visa-free for up to 90 days in the Schengen Area (think: Italy, France, Spain, Greece, and more).
✅ No added forms, fees, or delays for your 2025 European trip.
Just a Couple Things to Keep in Mind
To keep your travel smooth and drama-free:
• Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3–6 months after your planned departure from Europe.
• Don’t exceed 90 days within any 180-day period in Schengen countries. That clock doesn’t reset when you jump borders.
What’s Coming (But Not Yet)
On March 5, EU Home Affairs Ministers signed off on a new timeline:
• Entry/Exit System (EES): Set to launch in October 2025
• ETIAS: Now expected in late 2026
The EES will digitize border checks and track entries/exits for non-EU visitors. ETIAS will eventually be required for visa-free travelers like those from the U.S.—but not yet.
Border changes will roll out gradually, giving airlines, tour companies, and travelers time to adjust. But for now? You’re still free to roam.
Pro Tip
Even if you’re traveling with a group or on a curated experience, always check official government websites before any international trip. It’s the best way to stay up-to-date, avoid last-minute surprises, and travel like a pro.
More updates coming as the new systems get closer to launch. For now—book the flight, bring the passport, and enjoy the simplicity while it lasts.