Travel Sector Slams ETIAS Fee Hike
The European travel industry strongly disagrees with the EU’s plan to increase the ETIAS application fee from €7 to €20. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to launch in 2026 for visa-exempt visitors in the Schengen Zone.
Consequently, the hike has triggered criticism from large industry organizations, such as for airlines, hotels, tour operators, and transport companies.
What Is ETIAS?
ETIAS is a digital travel authorization system for visitors from visa-exempt countries entering the EU. Once approved, it remains valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Originally passed in 2018, the scheme is part of the EU’s push for enhanced border security and digital monitoring. Overall, it will apply to over 1.4 billion travelers from more than 60 countries, according to European Commission data.
“Disproportionate and Unjustified”
A coalition of 10 major travel associations has labeled the proposed ETIAS fee hike “disproportionate” and “unjustified.” Specifically, the group includes Airlines for Europe (A4E), ECTAA, HOTREC, IAAPA, and others, led by umbrella body BT4Europe.
Patrick Diemer, chair of BT4Europe, said that the fee adds “another cost and administrative burden on travelers, with little noticeable benefit to the user experience.”
He added that the price increase would discourage spontaneous travel and harm Europe’s tourism competitiveness.
Key Concerns Raised
First, industry leaders argue the EU has failed to justify the ETIAS fee increase with a detailed cost breakdown or public impact assessment. No alternative pricing tiers were seriously considered, they claim.
Second, they say aligning the price with the US ESTA or UK ETA lacks proper reasoning. After all, the operating models and border systems differ substantially.
Moreover, critics warn the increase comes amid mounting travel costs, including rising airfares and local tourist taxes. Not surprisingly, this has sparked fears of reduced demand and fewer bookings.
Call for Transparency and Fair Pricing
The industry coalition urges the European Commission to publish the full cost model behind the €20 ETIAS fee proposal. They also want a proper debate in the European Parliament and Council before the fee structure is finalized.
In addition, groups propose reinvesting any revenue surplus into tourism infrastructure and sustainability projects through future EU funding rounds. This could offset some of the burden on travelers and boost long-term sector resilience.
Commission Defends ETIAS Price Hike
On the other hand, the European Commission argues the ETIAS fee increase is essential to cover operating costs. Officials cite system complexity, cybersecurity investments, and integration with the upcoming Entry/Exit System (EES).
Yet the industry insists those costs do not justify a threefold price jump, especially without clear evidence.
What Happens Next?
The European Parliament and the Council will now review the ETIAS fee proposal in the coming months. Consequently, travel associations are ramping up pressure to revise or reject the proposed increase.
In time, the final decision could determine whether Europe balances security goals with its position as a top global travel destination.
Photo by Fons Heijnsbroek on Unsplash
