UK citizens are no longer allowed to enter Germany, France, and other EU countries freely unless..

New rules will begin this year for Britons travelling to the EU. This is to boost security measures at European borders.

From this summer, British travellers need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, known as ETIAS to enter 30 EU countries including Germany and France.

There will be a small fee for the ETIAS, which will be valid for several years—similar to the US ESTA.

This change is part of a larger plan to manage and monitor entries into the Schengen area, impacted by Brexit fallout and its effect on travel between the UK and the EU. This ETIAS new regulation could have also contributed in dropping the ranking of UK's passport from 4th position in 2024 to 5th in this year

What is European Travel Information and Authorisation System - ETIAS?

ETIAS is a new travel requirement for Britons and people from non-EU countries to visit 30 European nations. It screens travelers before they reach EU borders to enhance security by spotting potential threats. ETIAS is not a visa but adds extra security, especially for short-term visitors.

The start of ETIAS marks a big change in travel rules for Britons after Brexit. It means people entering the Schengen area need prior authorization, similar to the US ESTA system. The Schengen area lets over 400 million Europeans travel between member countries without border checks.

This new rule is part of Europe's larger plan to manage migration, boost internal security, and make border controls more efficient. Although there is yet no official start date, is expected to be required from June or July this year.

Will it cost money to enter Europe?

Yes. For travelling to an EU country for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, you'll need to pay for an ETIAS.

The cost is €7 (around £6) for people aged between 18 and 70. Those outside this age range don't have to pay.

You only pay once as the ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

To apply for an ETIAS, visit the website and fill out the form. You'll need to provide personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, and passport information, along with any details about criminal records or travel to conflict zones.

Once sent, the application and fee undergo an automated security check against EU databases. Most applications are processed and approved in minutes, and you'll get an email once it's approved.

Depending on some conditions, additional information or an interview, might be required, as a result the processing period could last up to 30 days.

Once the application is approved, your ETIAS is linked to your passport, valid for multiple entries until it expires in three years.

Is your ETIAS application denied?

If your ETIAS application is denied, here are the steps you can take:

Reason for refusal: You will get a notice explaining why your ETIAS was denied. Common reasons include errors in your application, health concerns, past criminal convictions, or previous refusals of entry to Schengen countries.

Right to appeal: You can appeal the decision. Contact the ETIAS National Unit of the country where your application was processed. They will guide you on the appeal process, which might involve providing additional documentation or clarifying your information.

Submit a new application: If you think the refusal was due to a mistake, you can submit a new application. Make sure all details are accurate and up-to-date to avoid issues.

Which countries are included?

Here are the countries included in the Schengen area, the EU, or associated with the Schengen Agreement:

Austria

Belgium

Czech Republic

Denmark

Estonia

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

Hungary

Iceland

Italy

Latvia

Liechtenstein

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Malta

Netherlands

Norway

Poland

Portugal

Slovakia

Slovenia

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

These countries are part of the ETIAS requirement for travel.