After numerous false starts, the European Travel Information and Authorization System, which will be required to visit most European countries, will launch in late 2026. But now it will cost even more. After originally pricing the ETIAS fee at 7 euros (roughly $8), the European Union recently increased the cost to 20 euros (about $23).
Although sometimes referred to as a "visa," this is actually just an online application and preauthorization. It will be much easier and much less expensive to obtain than a traditional travel visa.
As of August 2025, the EU's official ETIAS website states that the "ETIAS will start operations in the last quarter of 2026" and that "no action is required from travelers at this point."
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on The Points Guy Articles.
