Europe – ETIAS Delay Launch Date to Q4 2026
11 March, 2025
Latest Update on 10 March 2025, ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026.
No action is required from travellers at this point. The European Union will inform about specific date for the start of ETIAS several months prior to its launch.
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) was scheduled to be implemented in 2024. However, EU officials announced a delay, and the new launch date for ETIAS is set for May 2025.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System. It is a completely electronic system that allows and keeps track of visitors from countries who do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Zone.
It resembles the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which serves a similar purpose.
Why Is the EU Launching a New Travel Authorisation System?
The main reason for the approval of the ETIAS authorization is security. With the increased risk of travellers worldwide, the EU wants to ensure safe travel in its countries.
The ETIAS will substantially decrease security concerns through its information and data-gathering systems. This means that the ETIAS will detect if a person is a threat to the security of Schengen countries. This will lead to the person being denied entry and avoiding the threat of being present inside EU borders. It will deal with a problem before it is even there.
However, besides making travelling more secure, the ETIAS authorization will also assist the EU countries and all travellers in the following ways:
• Reduce procedures and application times
• Improve the management of EU country borders
• Assist in detecting and decreasing crime and terrorism
• Impede irregular migration
• Reinforce the visa liberalization policy of the EU
The ETIAS authorization will make travelling to the EU less of a hassle and a much safer experience.
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