Skip to main content

By 2026, you’ll need this $23 travel document to visit most of Europe

The ETIAS will now cost nearly triple the originally announced fee

By Amanda Teague Published August 2, 2025

U.S. Passport photo — Blake Guidry via Unsplash / Unsplash

Planning a European getaway in the next few years? You’ll soon need more than just your passport. Starting in late 2026, most travelers from visa-free countries, including the U.S., will be required to obtain a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) approval before entering 30 European nations. And the price just went up.

The European Union has confirmed that the application fee for ETIAS will now cost 20 euros (about $23.20), nearly triple the originally announced 7-euro fee. Though the system isn’t operational yet, the fee hike is already making headlines, adding another layer to what has become a long-delayed rollout.

Recommended Videos

First announced in 2016, ETIAS was originally expected to launch in 2022 but has faced multiple postponements, with the latest target set for the final quarter of 2026.

What is the European Travel Information and Authorization System?

The ETIAS is a new digital travel authorization created by the European Union to enhance border security and streamline entry for visitors from visa-exempt countries. It will be required for travelers from 59 countries who plan to visit 30 European nations for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Unlike a traditional visa, ETIAS is electronically linked to your passport and remains valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you renew your passport, you’ll need to apply for a new ETIAS as well.

Not everyone needs an ETIAS. Exempt travelers include EU citizens, individuals holding valid long-stay visas or residence permits from a member state, and nationals of countries like Ireland, Andorra, San Marino, Monaco, and the Holy See. UK citizens protected under the Withdrawal Agreement are also exempt.

Contributor

Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio, is a dedicated explorer of both the world and the written word…

Topics

Destinations

Travel

I spent 72 hours in London with only a carry-on. Here’s how I did it in style

Luxury travel doesn't require a checked bag

London

Somewhere between the baggage claim carousel and the Elizabeth Line, I realized I'd already won. As passengers from my Norwegian flight to London crowded around the conveyor belt waiting for checked luggage to appear, I was already on my way into the city. Twenty minutes later, I was headed toward central London with nothing more than a carry-on suitcase and a backpack. I've become a bit of a carry-on evangelist over the past few years. Not because I'm trying to prove some minimalist point or because I enjoy seeing how few shirts I can survive with. I just genuinely think it's the better way to travel, especially for a long weekend in Europe.

My recent 72-hour trip from Copenhagen to London wasn't exactly a backpacker's itinerary. It included a stay at one of London's nicest luxury hotels, rooftop cocktails, dinners worth dressing up for, and plenty of walking through Soho, Covent Garden, and the rest of central London. Somehow, everything I needed fit inside my Travelpro Platinum Elite Slim Cabin Hardshell Spinner V2, with a backpack holding my flight essentials.

Travel

This New Montana Hotel Captures the Poetry of the Open Road

Helena's newest boutique hotel revives the spirit of the classic roadside motel.

Corner, Home Decor, Bed

In case you need another excuse for a Montana getaway this summer, a quirky new boutique hotel has opened in Helena, the Treasure State's capital. The Bell Hotel occupies the site of the former Bell Motel, a classic 1950s roadside lodge thoughtfully reimagined by CWG Architecture. Each of its 14 rooms features locally made chocolates, coffee, and artwork. While in town, ask the front desk about the Bell's Picnic in the Park package. The hotel supplies a basket of local treats and a blanket; Montana provides the sublime scenery and glorious weather. You're on your own for companionship.

Hannah honey was a peachy kind of girl /Her eyes were hazel and her nose was slightly curved /We spent a lonely night at the Memory Motel- The Rolling Stones

Travel

Want to feel like a lad watching England vs. Norway in New York City? The London is where it’s at

The quarterfinals are here. The London's where you should be.

Flag, Plant, City

The last quarterfinal games in the 2026 FIFA World Cup are here. England-Norway kicks things off in Miami before Argentina-Switzerland caps the day's action in Kansas City. One of the best things to come out of the World Cup has been the atmosphere these fans have provided at each city they've visited. We saw the amazing vibes out of Mexico City last week when England fans visited. Before the game, England fans partied and went toe-to-toe with Mexicans at bars everywhere. I know because I was there at The Dog House Pub.

After England beat Mexico in a classic Round of 16 game, fans flooded the streets and partied. We celebrated with England fans until the wee hours of the morning. If you have a serious case of FOMO, you need not worry. You can still catch good vibes and feel like a lad watching England-Norway at The London, A Luxury Collection Hotel, in New York City.