Starting in late 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before visiting most European countries.

ETIAS will be a quick online pre-travel authorization designed to enhance security while keeping the process simple for travelers. It is not a visa – just a short application to confirm your eligibility for travel.

Key Details:

Start date: Late 2026
Applies to: Travel to the Schengen Area (France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and more – 30 countries in total!)
Validity: 3 years or until your passport expires
Cost: Only €7 for adults (free for under 18 and over 70)
Processing Time: Usually within minutes

How to apply for ETIAS:

Visit the official ETIAS website (coming soon at europa.eu)
Complete the online form (passport details, travel info, basic security questions)
Pay the small fee online
Receive your approval by email – easy and fast!

To make your European visit as smooth as possible, here are some very practical apps and links you may consider:

Travel Planning & Itinerary

Visit A City – visitacity.com
- Pre-made city itineraries and attractions guides for major European destinations.
TripIt – tripit.com
- Organize all your bookings (flights, hotels, trains) in one place.

Transport & Navigation

Google Maps – maps.google.com
- For walking, driving, and public transit directions.
Rome2Rio – rome2rio.com
- Find all possible ways to travel between two points (bus, train, ferry, flight).
Omio – omio.com
- Book trains, buses, and flights across Europe in one app.
Trainline – thetrainline.com
- Great for European rail tickets and schedules.
Bolt – bolt.eu
- Ride-hailing alternative to Uber in many European countries.

Accommodation

com – booking.com
- Hotels, hostels, apartments.
Airbnb – airbnb.com
- Private stays, unique accommodations.

Local Transport Cards & City Passes

Citymapper – citymapper.com
- Public transit maps and route planners for major European cities.
Eurail – eurail.com
- Rail passes for unlimited train travel in multiple countries.

Attractions & Tour

GetYourGuide – getyourguide.com
- Book tours, attractions, and skip-the-line tickets.
Tiqets – tiqets.com
- Instant entry tickets to museums and attractions.

Language & Communication

Google Translate – translate.google.com
- For quick translations (text, voice, camera scan).
Duolingo – duolingo.com
- Fun way to learn basic phrases before traveling.

Money & Payments