Americans looking to travel to Europe in 2024 should be aware of a new requirement that will go into effect for U.S. passport holders.
For those planning on traveling to Europe, you will soon need a visa to do so. Starting in 2024, US citizens will need to apply for authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System, or ETIAS, before visiting.
American travelers currently have visa-free access to 184 global destinations, the Henley Passport Index reports, with the U.S. passport ranking 8th among the most powerful passports to own, ABC 7 Chicago reported.
However, that status could change after the European Union adds its new documentation requirements for U.S. visitors.
Applicants can obtain the form on the official website for ETIAS or fill out a mobile application fee. There is a fee of 7 euros or $7.79 U.S. dollars.
Applicants will correspond with the agency via email, and upon approval, the authorization will allow U.S. visitors to visit European countries that require ETIAS for a maximum of 90 days within any 180 days.
Travelers must have a valid ETIAS during their entire stay, the news outlet reported, adding that most applications should be processed within minutes. However, there may be some cases in which an application takes longer. If so, delayed decisions will be sent within 4 to 14 days if the applicant is asked to provide additional documentation.
The European Union suggests those who plan on visiting apply for an ETIAS authorization “well in advance” of their “planned journey” and should ensure that their personal information listed on the VISA is correct because any mistake will prevent them from crossing the border.
Denied applications will include the reasons for the denial and provide information on how to appeal the decision.
Similar to passport applications, the ETIAS authorization doesn’t guarantee an automatic right of entry. “Border guards will verify that you meet the entry conditions,” and anyone who does not meet the conditions “will be refused entry,” according to the EU.
