US tourists caught a break. The expected European entry fee scheduled to start in 2024 has been pushed back. Initially, the plan was to start charging an entry fee this May but after experiencing difficulties getting it launched, it has been pushed back a year.
American tourists will get an extra free year of travel to Europe now that European officials have decided that the European Union’s “ETIAS” travel authorization will begin in 2025.
The new rule will apply to visitors traveling without visas from 60 countries, including the US, UK and Canada, and will be a requirement to enter 30 European countries, including Greece, France, Spain, and others, the New York Post reported.
Applicants will be required to complete an application that will collect personal and passport information, as well as their education level, current occupation, trip details and any criminal convictions. Officials say application processing times are expected to occur within minutes but could take longer.
It’s strongly suggested that visitors apply “well in advance” of their travel dates.
Applicants’ entry will last three years or until their passport expires. Visitors can enter the participating European countries as often as they want for short-term stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
