Information
Information
12/10/2025
ETIAS Visa 2026b

ETIAS: What UK Drivers Need to Know Before Travelling to Europe

UK drivers planning a holiday to France, Spain, Portugal, or other European destinations should be aware of a new travel authorisation system coming into effect soon: the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). While UK passport holders previously did not need a visa for short trips to Schengen countries, ETIAS will require travellers to apply online before arrival.

 

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is not a visa, but a travel authorisation for citizens of visa-exempt countries, including the UK. Similar to the US ESTA or Canada’s eTA, it allows authorities to pre-screen travellers before they enter the Schengen area. Once approved, an ETIAS authorisation is valid for up to three years, or until the traveller’s passport expires, whichever comes first. It permits multiple short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

 

What is the Schengen Area?

The Schengen Area is a group of 27 European countries that have abolished passport controls at their mutual borders, allowing people to travel freely between member countries. Popular holiday destinations such as France, Spain, and Portugal are all part of the Schengen Area. It’s important for UK drivers to understand this because ETIAS applies specifically to travel within these countries. Note that some European countries, including Ireland, are not part of the Schengen Area, so ETIAS does not apply there.

 

The New Entry/Exit System (EES) – Coming 12 October 2025

Before ETIAS becomes mandatory, the European Union is introducing another new system: the Entry/Exit System (EES). This system is set to launch on 12 October 2025 and will replace traditional passport stamps for non-EU nationals travelling to the Schengen Area.

Key points about EES:

  • What it is: A digital border-check system that electronically records your entry, exit, or any refusal when entering the Schengen Area.

  • Who it applies to: All non-EU nationals travelling to Schengen countries, whether you require a visa or are visa-exempt. Some exemptions still apply.

  • Why it matters: It will speed up border checks, enhance security, and reduce time spent at passport control.

  • How it relates to ETIAS: ETIAS is scheduled to follow once EES is fully implemented by April 2026. UK travellers will only need to apply for ETIAS when it officially launches in late 2026.

 

Who Needs to Apply for ETIAS?

UK passport holders planning trips to Schengen countries will need to apply for ETIAS. Some exemptions exist, for example for those who already hold a valid visa or reside in a Schengen country.

 

When and How to Apply

ETIAS is expected to come into force in the last quarter of 2026. Travellers will need to submit their applications online, providing personal and passport information, as well as travel details. Most applications are expected to be processed quickly, but applying early is recommended to avoid any delays.

 

What UK Drivers Should Do Now

For UK drivers using toll roads in France, Spain, or Portugal, ETIAS will be an additional step in travel preparation. Here are some key tips:

  • Check your passport validity and make sure it will remain valid for at least six months.

  • Keep an eye on official announcements regarding the EES launch on 12 October 2025 and the ETIAS launch in late 2026.

  • Apply online for ETIAS once the system opens, and keep a digital or printed copy of the authorisation.

  • Plan travel within the 90-day Schengen limit.

  • Ensure your car travel documents, insurance, and toll tags are all in order for a smooth journey across borders.

 

Why This Matters for Car Travellers

For UK drivers, having ETIAS approved in advance and preparing for EES means a quicker and smoother experience at border checks. Combined with pre-registered toll tags for free-flow motorways in France, Spain, and Portugal, this will help ensure that holidays and road trips start stress-free.

 

Final Note

The introduction of EES in October 2025, followed by ETIAS in 2026, represents a small but important change for UK travellers driving to continental Europe. With early preparation, it will be easy to comply, allowing families and individual drivers to enjoy a seamless journey across France, Spain, Portugal, and beyond.