EU Triples Visa-Free Travel Fee to 20 Euros

The European Union (EU) plans to increase the ETIAS entry fee for short-term visa-exempt travellers from €7 to €20. The fee increase will be implemented as part of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which will come into effect in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Citizens of countries such as the UK, US, Canada, Brazil, and Australia will be required to obtain an ETIAS permit for travel of up to 90 days to 30 European countries, excluding Ireland. Those under 18 and over 70 will also be exempt from the fee.

The Commission is targeting €300 million in additional revenue annually with this change. The proposal has been submitted to the EU Council and the European Parliament, but unlike other types of taxes, it does not require unanimity. The revenue will be used as a contribution to the EU budget.