Europe Delays ETIAS Travel Permit Indefinitely

Europe’s long-delayed travel permit for visa-free visitors has hit another roadblock. The European Union is postponing the launch of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) indefinitely, Euronews reported on 12 August 2026. Travellers remain in limbo over when they will need to apply — and pay.

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No applications are being taken

ETIAS will eventually require travellers from countries including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Australia to apply for pre-travel authorisation. A 2027 launch had been expected. Even that timeline is now uncertain, as technical problems with Europe’s new border system continue to cause difficulties.

For travellers, the message for now is simple: do not apply, and do not pay anyone claiming to offer ETIAS applications. Last month the Financial Times reported that the scheme was likely to be postponed. The EU has since made the decision official on its website: "ETIAS is currently not in operation and no applications for travel authorizations are collected at this point." It added: "The European Union will inform about the specific date for the start of ETIAS several months prior to its launch."

After EES disruption at the border

The move follows chaos around Europe’s new electronic Entry/Exit System (EES). Passengers have faced huge airport queues and missed flights during the busy summer holiday season. EES was initially supposed to launch in 2022, but was pushed back repeatedly.

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Cost, coverage and how it would work

When ETIAS does eventually launch, it is set to cost €20 and grant access to 30 European countries in the Schengen area, as well as Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Children under 18, adults over 70 and some family members of EU citizens will reportedly be exempt from the fee. Background on who will need the permit is on our ETIAS overview.

The authorisation will be valid for three years or until the passport expires, and will allow holders to stay in the Schengen area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The system is based on the US ESTA programme, which has operated since 2008. Applicants will complete an online form, provide personal information, answer security questions and undergo pre-travel screening. Most applications are expected to be approved within minutes.

A revised timetable next month

According to reports, ETIAS officials are expected to put forward a revised timeline next month. There are rumours it could still come into force this year. A 2027 launch remains more likely. Until a date is confirmed, nobody should be taking applications. When the system does open, our application guide will follow the official process.