US Citizens traveling to Europe: Upcoming Changes

U.S. Citizens traveling to Europe will soon need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) visa waiver, the new travel authorization for Europe, which will come into effect November 2023. This authorization will cost Euro 7 (approx $8) and will be valid for three (3) consecutive years, allowing for multiple trips within the 3-year frame. The ETIAS application form will be obtained through a simple online process that will be able to be completed quickly (no more than 10 minutes) with the authorization being granted in a matter of minutes. 

Similar to other countries and regions in the world, Europe has recently decided to improve its security level to avoid any further problems with illegal immigration and terrorism. To obtain the Europe visa waiver for Americans, U.S. citizens will need to have a valid passport, a credit or debit card, and an email account. The online form will require you provide some personal data, including name, date and place of birth, sex and nationality, information on travel documents (validity and country of issue), residential address and contact information, and the European country where the first entry is expected. It will also include questions related to previous criminal records and presence in conflict zones. 

Countries that will need the ETIAS authorization include Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, Mexico, United Arab Emirates, United States.