Local sources from France: La Voix du Nord, MSN.
UK coverage: Liverpool Echo.
In a pivotal move that marks a significant shift for travelers from the UK and other non-EU countries, the European Union is set to introduce a new travel authorization fee that will see travelers paying 20 euros to enter 30 European countries. This development, stemming from the EU’s European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), is aimed at bolstering security measures and streamlining entry procedures into the Schengen Zone. Initially estimated at 7 euros, the fee has undergone a notable increase, affecting a broad spectrum of travelers seeking to explore destinations such as Spain, France, and Greece. The ETIAS, which facilitates multiple short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period, is slated for introduction in the final quarter of 2026, transitioning to a mandatory requirement in 2027. This system will apply to a wide array of European nations, with the prospect of application denial based on several criteria including passport validity and security risk assessments. Exemptions have been made for individuals under the age of 18 or over 70. According to reports from La Voix du Nord, the European Commission’s decision to raise the fee to 20 euros from the previously announced 7 euros came on Friday, targeting nationals from approximately sixty countries that currently enjoy visa-free short-stay travel to Europe. This list includes travelers from Brazil, the United States, and the United Kingdom, among others. The EU has cited delays in the rollout of this new digital travel authorization and an automated border control system, now expected to be fully operational by late 2026. This measure underscores the EU’s commitment to enhancing border security and managing the flow of travelers into and within the Schengen Area more effectively.
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