ETIAS fees for European travel set to triple

The price for an ETIAS travel authorization to enter many parts of Europe is set to jump significantly.

ETIAS fee increase impacts visa-free travelers to Europe

Some travelers may face higher costs to enter Europe starting in 2026. The European Commission announced that the fee for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, known as ETIAS, will rise from 7 euros ($8) to 20 euros ($23). This fee adjustment was attributed to inflation and increased operational costs. Although ETIAS was adopted in 2018, its implementation has been delayed several times and is now expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2026. The new fee aligns with similar travel authorizations like the U.K.'s ETA and the U.S.' ESTA, which cost £16 ($21.70) and $21, respectively.

The upcoming increase in the ETIAS fee reflects broader trends in international travel costs and regulations. As countries cope with inflation and rising operational expenses, travelers can expect higher fees for entry permissions in various regions. This raises concerns for frequent travelers, especially as they navigate increasing travel expenses. The alignment of ETIAS fees with those of other countries suggests a trend towards standardizing entry costs, but it also reinforces the financial burden on travelers who rely on visa-free access to Europe.

Highlights

Travelers should be prepared for the increased costs ahead as tourism trends evolve.