How to Apply for ETIAS
Complete application guide
ETIAS applications will be completed online in minutes. No embassy visit needed — just your passport, email, and a payment card.
- Cost
- €20
- Processing
- Minutes
- Method
- Online only
- Validity
- 3 years
The €20 form that unlocks Europe
Applying for ETIAS takes about 10 minutes online: passport details, contact info, your first Schengen destination, a handful of security questions, and a €20 payment. The vast majority of applications come back approved within minutes; a small share trigger a manual review and can take up to 30 days. Apply at least 72 hours before flying — and never through a third-party site.
5 Steps to Get ETIAS
- 1
Visit the Official Portal
Go to travel-europe.europa.eu/etias — the only legitimate ETIAS website. Never use third-party sites that charge extra fees.
- 2
Complete the Application Form
Fill in your personal details, passport information, and answer background questions. The form takes about 10-15 minutes to complete.
- 3
Pay the Fee
Pay the €20 fee using a credit or debit card (free for travelers under 18 or over 70). Payment is required to submit your application.
- 4
Wait for Processing
Most applications are approved within minutes. Some may take up to 96 hours, or up to 30 days if additional verification is needed.
- 5
Receive Your ETIAS
Your approved ETIAS will be sent to your email and linked electronically to your passport. No need to print anything.
What to Expect
ETIAS is entirely online — no embassy visits, no interviews, no paper documents. It is designed to be quick and straightforward.
The form takes about 15-20 minutes, plus waiting time for approval. Have your passport ready before you start.
Application Quick Facts
- Application
- Online Only
- Fee
- €20
- Processing
- Minutes
- Validity
- 3 years
No embassy visit required
Free for under 18/over 70
95%+ approved instantly
Multiple entries allowed
What You Will Need to Apply
Valid passport — Must be valid for at least 3 months after your planned departure from Europe
Email address — Where you will receive your approved ETIAS
Payment method — Credit or debit card for the €20 fee
Travel plans — Your first destination country in the Schengen Area
Typical Application Timeline
0 min
Start application on official portal
15 min
Complete form and submit payment
15-30 min
Most applicants receive approval email
Up to 96 hours
Some applications require additional time
Up to 30 days
Flagged cases may require manual review
After Approval
Your ETIAS is electronically linked to your passport — nothing to print. Border officials verify your authorization by scanning your passport.
Valid for 3 years (or until passport expiry), ETIAS allows multiple entries. Stay up to 90 days per 180-day period.
Save your confirmation email. Check your status on the official portal anytime.