The EU is increasing the ETIAS fee from €7 to €20, effective late 2026.
Correspondingly, this change impacts travelers from visa-exempt countries such as the U.S., the U.K., Australia, and Canada. Despite coming as a surprise for some, the union assures it is a necessary move.
Why the EU Increased the Fee
Previously, in 2018, the EU had set the original ETIAS fee at €7. However, since then, inflation and operational costs have risen sharply.
Therefore, the European Commission proposed the new €20 price on July 17, 2025. Now, it awaits approval by the EU Council and Parliament.
According to the EU, the fee reflects current financial realities and aligns with global equivalents. For instance, the U.S. ESTA costs about €18 ($21), and the UK ETA government fee is €19 (£16).
Additionally, the funds will support security and IT systems like the Entry/Exit System (EES) and the Schengen Information System (SIS).
“This increase aims to cover the operational costs of ETIAS, taking into account all its functionalities and inflation rates, and align the EU fee to the ones of other countries that have similar travel authorisation programmes,” reads a statement from the European Commission’s Migration and Home Affairs department.
When It Will Take Effect
ETIAS is expected to launch in late 2026, approximately in October. However, this depends on the successful rollout of the EES system, beginning in 2025.
Once in effect, the €20 fee will apply immediately. In addition, the EU authorization will remain valid for three years or until the passport expires.
Who Is Exempt
Travelers under 18 or over 70 years old will not need to pay. Furthermore, EU family members and diplomatic passport holders qualify for exemptions.
Still, most tourists will face the higher fee. A family of four, for example, will now pay €80 compared to the previous €28.
Reactions From Travelers and Industry
The tourism industry has expressed concern. Some fear the increased cost may deter spontaneous trips and reduce short-term visits.
Despite that, the EU maintains that the system is still affordable. By comparison, Canada’s eTA costs CAD 7 (€14).
According to data, EU and Schengen consulates received 10.3 million applications for short-stay visas in 2023. Hence, a fee increase could generate billions in the next five years.
How the EU ETIAS Compares Globally
Unlike the U.S. ESTA, which lasts two years, ETIAS offers a three-year validity. Correspondingly, EU travelers may use it for multiple 90-day stays.
More importantly, the ETIAS is not a visa. Specifically, it’s a pre-screening system that aims to improve border efficiency and security for Schengen countries.
Currently, travelers from visa-free countries must apply online and receive approval before boarding.
What EU Tourists Should Do Next
Moving forward, tourists planning to visit Europe after 2026 should include the €20 fee in their travel budgets.
Additionally, they should stay informed about the launch timeline and eligibility details.
Aalthough the fee hike may frustrate some, the EU believes it is a necessary investment in secure and seamless travel.
Photo by JOHN TOWNER on Unsplash
