Once implemented, the ETIAS for UK citizens will have the same rules as the other 60 visa-exempt countries. From the first half of 2025, the ETIAS may come into force as confirmed by the EU authorities. The digital system will ensure the duration of the travelers in the EU Block.
Do UK Citizens require ETIAS?
As defined by the European Commission, there are different rules of ETIAS for UK citizens and British nationals. The difference is explained as below:
1- UK Citizens
UK citizens must obtain a valid ETIAS travel authorization if they plan to visit any European country requiring ETIAS for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Furthermore, for longer stays, UK nationals must comply with entry requirements set by national or EU migration laws, which may include obtaining a visa or a residence permit.
2- UK Citizens with Withdrawl Agreement
UK citizens and their family members who are covered by the Withdrawal Agreement (after Brexit) are not required to obtain ETIAS. They are allowed to live in their EU host country and travel to other European nations that require ETIAS, provided they have documents that confirm their status.
3- British nationals who are not British citizens
Following British nationals do not need ETIAS travel authorization
- British nationals (Overseas);
- British Overseas Territories citizens (BOTC): These territories include Anguilla, Bermuda, British Antarctic Territory, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, Pitcairn, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, South Georgia, and South Sandwich Islands and Turks and Caicos Islands;
- British Overseas Citizens (BOC);
- British Protected Persons (BPP);
- British subjects (BS).
What is ETIAS?
Travelers from over 60 countries (also the UK) with visa-exemption facilities to enter EU countries will soon need to apply online for ETIAS, an authorization to visit the 30 EU nations. The further
| ETIAS Features | Details |
| ETIAS Validity | 3 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. |
| Link to Passport | Electronically linked to the traveler’s passport. If a new passport is issued, a new ETIAS authorization is required. |
| Duration of Stay | Up to 90 days within a 180-day period. |
| Entry conditions | Allowed; travelers can enter and leave EU countries multiple times. Entry is not guaranteed; border guards will check the passport, ETIAS, and any other required entry documents upon arrival. |
How to apply for the ETIAS as a UK citizen?
Since ETIAS is a digital authorization for UK citizens to travel to the EU countries, they will be able to apply it online. For this purpose, either the official website of ETIAS from the EU can be used or the app. The application details are as follows:
a) Applying for ETIAS
To apply for an ETIAS, you can visit the official ETIAS website or use the mobile app. The application process requires a fee of €7, although some travelers may be exempt from this charge. Be sure to have all the necessary information ready before starting the application.
b) Processing Time
Most ETIAS applications are processed within minutes. However, if there are delays, you can expect a decision within four days. In cases where additional information is required, processing may take up to 14 days, and in rare instances, up to 30 days if an interview is necessary. It is advisable to apply well ahead of your travel date.
c) Approval
Once you’ve applied, you will receive an email confirmation with a unique ETIAS application number, which should be kept for future reference. After processing, you will receive another email with the result. If your application is approved, double-check all the details, such as your name and passport number, as any inaccuracies could lead to being denied entry.
d) Refusal and Appeals
If your ETIAS application is rejected, you will receive an email outlining the reasons for refusal. The email will also provide instructions on how to appeal the decision, including contact details for the relevant authority and the deadline for submitting an appeal.
e) Validity
The ETIAS is valid for three years or until the passport used in the application expires, whichever comes first. It allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, and multiple entries are permitted during its validity, as long as the time limits are observed. It’s important to ensure that your ETIAS remains valid for the entire duration of your stay.
f) Proving ETIAS at the EU Borders
Your ETIAS authorization is electronically linked to the travel document used during the application process. You must carry this document with you; otherwise, you may be denied boarding or entry.
It’s important to note that a valid ETIAS does not guarantee entry into the EU. Border guards will still check that you meet the entry requirements, and those who do not comply may be refused entry.
Which EU countries will require ETIAS?
Overall, 30 European countries will require travelers from visa-free countries to present ETIAS at the time of entry. The list of the EU countries is as follows:
| AUSTRIA | BELGIUM | BULGARIA | CROATIA | CYPRUS | CZECH REPUBLIC |
| DENMARK | ESTONIA | FINLAND | FRANCE | GERMANY | GREECE |
| HUNGARY | ICELAND | ITALY | LATVIA | LIECHTENSTEIN | LITHUANIA |
| LUXEMBOURG | MALTA | NETHERLANDS | NORWAY | POLAND | PORTUGAL |
| ROMANIA | SLOVAKIA | SLOVENIA | SPAIN | SWEDEN | SWITZERLAND |