You might be wondering if you need to pay a fee to enter Europe, or perhaps whether you need to obtain a VISA. It’s safe to say things got a little confusing after Brexit – no wonder it’s hard to know what’s going on!
The rules around travel to Europe have changed for Brits since Brexit, with further plans coming into place later this year. Not to worry – we have all the answers for you right here. Here’s everything you need to know about travelling in Europe from the UK…
Do I need to pay a fee to enter a country in the EU?
At this moment, there’s currently no additional entry fee for EU countries for British citizens. However, there are upcoming changes you need to be aware of. From Spring 2025, UK travellers will need to obtain an ETIAS visa waiver every three years, in order to successfully travel to EU countries post-Brexit.
The visa waiver will cost €7 (£5.97) and will be valid for three years, or until a traveller’s passport expires, and allows an unlimited amount of entries in that time – so you won’t need to worry about applying each and every time you go away, within those three years.
Currently, you can still enter EU countries without a visa waiver, just using your British passport. This is only the case until next spring, so make sure from next year, you remember to apply and have one in place in advance of your holiday.
What is an ETIAS visa waiver?
An ETIAS visa waiver is not a visa – it’s simply an electronic travel permit introduced to enhance the security as well as enforce the border of the Schengen Zone. Entering this area with an approved ETIAS visa waiver will become a requirement for many nationalities, not just the UK – such as the USA and Canada. The UK will now be one of 61 countries who must apply before entering.
How do I apply for an ETIAS visa waiver?
From November 2023, you’ll simply need to complete the short ETIAS Online Application Form, which you can find here. Don’t worry – the application form should be done in less than 10 minutes.
Make sure to fill out all your details in correctly, things like your name, address, passport details and a few background questions, such as information regarding your health or any past criminal convictions. Most applications will be approved very quickly!
How much does an ETIAS via waiver to enter Europe cost?
The cost of the new ETIAS visa waiver for Brits wanting to enter the EU will be minimal. There will only be a small fee, to cover the cost of processing the application. British applicants under 18 or over 70 will not have to pay for an ETIAS visa waiver.
This application and small fee will make entering Europe for applicable non-EU members much easier, more convenient and more affordable – non-eligible countries will still need to visit and embassy or consulate to submit paperwork for a visa, for each individual country within the EU.
Why do I need a ETIAS visa waiver?
Since Brexit, the UK is no longer a member of the EU, meaning British citizens can no longer only use their passport to enter EU countries.
All applicants will be screened using security databases such as Interpol and Europol, allowing identification of people who pose a potential security risk and the prevention of them entering Europe.
How long can you travel in Europe after Brexit?
As of this moment, UK citizens can travel to any EU country for up to a maximum of 90 days without needing a visa. This will continue to be the case upon the launch of the ETIAS visa waver.
Travelling in Europe anytime soon?
There are so many amazing destinations in Europe to escape to – from sunny Spain to gorgeous Greece!
We hope we’ve helped clear things up a bit for you. If you’re looking for inspiration on where to go, take a look at some of our best deals right here…
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