The ETIAS system for visa-free travel to European countries is still not operational, and no new launch date has been announced. After another postponement of the ETIAS launch, travelers do not need to submit applications or pay fees. This is reported by SchengenVisaInfo.
According to the publication, the previous target was the last quarter of 2026. However, this wording has been removed from the main page of the system. The EU is expected to announce a specific date a few months before the system becomes operational.
When will ETIAS go into effect and why is the system being delayed
The official EU portal states that ETIAS is not yet operational and does not accept applications. Therefore, it is currently impossible to obtain an official permit. Websites that already offer to pay for its issuance are not official application submission services.
The launch of ETIAS has been postponed multiple times. According to information from SchengenVisaInfo, the previous estimated deadline disappeared from the relevant announcement in July 2026, and no new schedule has been released since.
ETIAS is connected to the Entry/Exit System (EES). However, these are different tools: biometric control EES fixes border crossings, while ETIAS requires prior authorization for travel.
The EU has not officially mentioned the reason for the latest delay. The publication links it to technical work and the load associated with the implementation of EES, but this is not an official explanation from the European Commission.
How much will ETIAS cost after launch
The future permit is intended for short-term trips for citizens of visa-free countries, including Ukraine, who will be subject to the system's requirements. The main parameters are as follows:
- application fee: 20 euros;
- fee exemption: for applicants under 18 and over 70;
- validity period: up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first;
- area of application: 30 European countries.
After the system begins operation, a six-month transition period is expected, during which the permit will not yet be mandatory. The European Commission may extend this period. Following that, a grace period will apply with specific conditions for the first trip.
Therefore, even the announcement of the launch date will not mean an immediate requirement to obtain ETIAS for every trip. Currently, no actions regarding this authorization are needed from travelers.
At the same time, other document requirements for crossing the border remain in effect. The absence of ETIAS before the system's launch does not cancel passport checks, purposes, and conditions of stay.