Beginning in 2024, Americans traveling to Europe will be required to submit additional authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System. The authorization will cost $8 and will be valid for three years after submission.
It will only affect trips that last less than 90 days within a 180-day period starting at arrival, meaning travelers will need a visa if you go for 91 days or more.
U.S. students studying abroad may use the authorization system if their term will be shorter than the 90-day limit. They can apply for a student visa for a longer trip.
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The system will affect all countries in the European Union’s Schengen Area, as well as Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus. A full list of countries affected is available here.
Most applications will usually take minutes or up to a few days to process, but it may take up to 14 days if additional information is needed. If your authorization is not completed, you will not be allowed to board any form of transport to the participating countries in Europe.
For more information, ETIAS has released a FAQ board.