The introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) for UK travellers has been postponed once more, with the launch now anticipated in 2027. This marks another delay for the system, which will require all UK tourists aged 18 to 70 to pay a €20 (£18) fee for travel authorisation when visiting countries in the European Union.
Reason for the Delay
According to the Financial Times, EU-Lisa, the agency responsible for the ETIAS rollout, has expressed concerns about meeting the original 2026 timeline. The delay is attributed to ongoing issues with the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES), which has faced significant implementation challenges. One source familiar with the situation stated that they needed to “clean up EES” before launching ETIAS. The EES, which began in October 2024 after multiple delays, requires non-EU passengers to register fingerprints and facial images upon first entry into the Schengen zone, with biometric verification on each subsequent exit and re-entry.
Fee and Validity
The ETIAS fee has been set at €20, an increase from the originally proposed €7. A statement on the European Commission website explains: "ETIAS fee has been set at EUR 20 instead of the previous EUR 7. The new fee takes into account the rise in inflation since 2018 and additional operational costs related to new technical features integrated into the system. It also brings the cost for an ETIAS travel authorisation in line with similar travel authorisation programmes around the globe." Once granted, the authorisation remains valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever is sooner, and permits multiple journeys.
Impact on Travellers
The delay provides additional time for travellers and airports to prepare. The European Commission has stated it will publicise the launch date well in advance. Meanwhile, under the EES, airports and ports can temporarily suspend the system if queues become unmanageable, but this opt-out is due to end in September 2026, according to EU officials. UK tourists aged 18 to 70 will be required to obtain ETIAS before travelling, while those under 18 or over 70 are exempt from the fee.
