requirement
ETIAS 2026 | 2027
ETIAS will begin operating in late 2026, with a transition period allowing travelers to apply before it becomes fully mandatory.
From April 2027, ETIAS will be mandatory for all travelers from visa-exempt countries.
Requirements for Greece, Italy, and Portugal: Who Needs to Apply Before Traveling?
Starting late 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need an ETIAS to enter Schengen countries, including Greece, Italy, and Portugal.
Linked to the Entry-Exit System (EES), ETIAS ensures faster border checks and enhanced security. This guide explains who must apply, based on nationality, age, and travel purpose.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization, not a visa. It allows entry to Schengen countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Applications are completed online via the official ETIAS website, with approvals usually within minutes.
Quick Comparison
ETIAS vs Schengen Visa:
Feature
Application
Processing
Validity
Eligibility
Stay Limit
Cost
ETIAS
Online
Minutes to days
Up to 3 years
Visa-exempt nationals
90 days / 180 days
EUR 20
Schengen Visa
In person
Weeks
Varies
Nationals requiring a visa
Depends on visa
Varies
ETIAS is easier to obtain while still meeting border security requirements.
Why ETIAS is Required
ETIAS improves security and border efficiency. Millions of travelers visit Greece, Italy, and Portugal each year. ETIAS pre-screens travelers and makes entry faster and more predictable.
Benefits:
. Shorter waiting times at passport control
. Easier multiple-entry travel
. Valid up to 3 years for several trips
Who Needs ETIAS?
ETIAS applies to visa-exempt travelers for short stays (up to 90 days) in Schengen countries, whether for tourism, business, family visits, or transit.
Eligible Nationals: USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and others.
Not Required: EU/Schengen citizens and legal residents.
Age: Generally 18–70. Travelers under 18 or over 70 must apply but are exempt from the fee. All must carry ETIAS linked to their passport.
Who Does Not Need ETIAS?
. Valid Schengen visa holders
. EU/Schengen citizens
. Legal residents in Schengen countries
. Refugees or stateless persons with valid documents
. Citizens of microstates (Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican)
Transit: If staying in the airport’s international zone, ETIAS is not required.
Key Requirements to Apply
. Passport: machine-readable, biometric, valid at least 3 months after travel, issued in last 10 years
. Payment: EUR 20 online (exempt: under 18, over 70, family of EU/Schengen citizens)
. Email: for confirmation and delivery of ETIAS linked to passport
Special Considerations
. Families with children: each child needs ETIAS; fee exempt; parents complete application
. Business/frequent travelers: ETIAS valid 3 years or until passport expiry, multiple entries allowed
. Cruise passengers: even short port stops require ETIAS
How to Check if You Need ETIAS
. Nationality
. Travel purpose (tourism, business, transit, family visit)
. Length of stay (<90 days / 180 days)
. Existing Schengen visa or residence
If from a visa-exempt country for a short stay, ETIAS is required.
Get Ready for Your Trip
From late 2026, ETIAS will be mandatory for visa-exempt travelers visiting Greece, Italy, and Portugal. The process is quick, online, and secure. Apply in advance for a smooth, stress-free start to your journey.
ETIAS will be mandatory for visa-exempt travelers visiting Greece, Italy, and Portugal. The process is quick, online, and secure. Apply in advance for a smooth, stress-free start to your journey. If you still have any questions, please contact us.