ETIAS is expected to start in the last quarter of 2026, but travellers should not apply before the official system opens. The practical message for TripAdept readers is simple: check the official EU ETIAS page before paying any website, be careful of lookalike services, and treat any urgent "apply now" message as something to verify first.
What this means for travellers
Use this as a planning prompt, not as final legal or visa advice. Check the official source again close to your travel date, especially before paying for flights, visas, hotels or non-refundable activities.
TripAdept planning action
- Check passport validity and blank-page requirements.
- Keep booking details, hotel address and return or onward-ticket information easy to access.
- Allow more time for airport, border and document checks when the route involves multiple countries.
Verify before travel: official / reference source