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Important Update for Travelers to Europe:

Planning a trip to the U.K. or Europe? Travelers should be aware of two new requirements: the U.K. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), and the ETIAS travel authorization for Europe’s Schengen Area, the official start date has not been announced. Both are simple online applications but must be secured before departure to avoid delays during your travels.

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Important Update for Travelers to the U.K.:

 

Starting January 8, 2025, U.S., Canadian, and many non-European passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter or transit through the U.K. if they do not possess a valid U.K. visa. The ETA is required for short stays (up to six months) for purposes such as tourism, business, family visits, or short-term study. It is also mandatory for travelers transiting through the U.K.

UK Countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland

 

Key Details:

• Applications can be completed online.

• You must provide passport details, a digital photo, and pay a non-refundable fee of £10 (approximately $13.00 USD).

• Processing typically takes three working days.

• The ETA will be digitally linked to your passport and remains valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

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For more information about the UK’s ETA requirement, visit the UK government’s ETA website.

 

 

Important Update for Travelers to Europe:

 

ETIAS – Upcoming European Travel Authorization
The European Union is introducing the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) for U.S. passport holders and other visa-exempt travelers visiting participating European countries. ETIAS has not yet been implemented, and travelers cannot currently apply. Once operational, ETIAS will not be a visa, but rather a simple online travel authorization for eligible short-term visitors. The European Union will announce the official implementation date in advance. Afar & Away Travel will continue to monitor these requirements and provide our travelers with updated information and instructions well before departure.

Important Note for Ireland: The Republic of Ireland is not part of the Schengen Area and does not participate in ETIAS. Therefore, ETIAS will not be required for entry into Ireland, even after the European system is implemented.
 

Key Details when implemented:

• The online application takes less than 10 minutes to complete.

• Approvals are typically issued within 96 hours or less.

• The registration fee for ETIAS is €7 (approximately $7.40 USD).

• The ETIAS is valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

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For more information about the requirement to travel to the European Union (EU), visit the EU government’s ETIAS website.

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Travelers are responsible for completing and obtaining their ETA and ETIAS authorizations before departure to avoid any travel delays.

 

 

Last Updated: September 2026
 

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