UK holidaymakers will face extra charge heading to Europe next summer
13.09.2023 - 11:55
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
British travellers will have to pay a fee to enter Europe next summer as post-Brexit rules come into force. From next year UK holidaymakers will need to obtain a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) visa waiver to visit popular holiday destinations, including Spain, France and Greece.
Brits will need to complete an application form and pay a seven euro application fee, which is around £6. Although the EU has not confirmed an exact date for when the ETIAS comes into force, guidance says that it will be ‘operational in 2024’.
Once obtained the ETIAS travel authorisation is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. Travellers will be able to leave and return as many times as they wish, as long as the overall limit of the authorised stay is respected.
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According to EU guidance most applications will be processed within minutes, taking 96 hours at most. However, for some applicants it may take longer if additional documents are required and travellers are advised to not buy any tickets or book accommodation until they have the ETIAS, so it’s best to apply as soon as you start planning your holiday.
To apply for the ETIAS you’ll need to provide information about yourself, including personal details, travel document information and any details of a past criminal convictions. You’ll also need to state the first country you intend to stay in, however once you’ve received the ETIAS you’ll be able to visit any of the 30 countries that it covers.
The 30 European countries where visa-exempt travellers require an ETIAS travel authorisation are:
Austria
Belgium
Bulgaria
Croati