The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a new travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals visiting 30 European countries for short stays.

Beginning late 2026

Beginning late 2026, Canadian passport holders will be required to hold an ETIAS before visiting the Schengen area and certain non-Schengen member states that apply the same entry rules, for short stays of up-to 90 days within any 180-day period.

The ETIAS was introduced by the European Union (EU) to improve the security and management of its external borders. For a full list of European countries requiring a ETIAS, visit the European Union website.

How does an ETIAS work?

Your ETIAS is electronically linked to your passport and works with the Entry/Exit System (EES), which records arrivals and departures at external borders. It does not replace it. An ETIAS does not replace a visa and it does not guarantee that you will be granted entry at the border.

The ETIAS is similar to other systems already in place in Canada (eTA), the United States (ESTA), and the United Kingdom (ETA).

Cost and how long an ETIAS is valid

The cost of an ETAIS will be approximately $32 Cdn (€20) and it will be valid for three (3) years or until your passport expires. Canadians visiting Europe with the ETIAS during that time can re-enter ETIAS countries multiple times, as long as they follow the 90-day rule within the 180-day period.

Who must apply for an ETIAS?

An ETIAS is required if you:

• you are a Canadian citizen traveling to a Schengen Area or other country in the EU list.
• your travel is 90 days or less for tourism, business, transit, or medical reasons.
• you do not have a visa or residency permit for an EU country.

Who does not need an ETIAS?

You do not need an ETIAS if:

• you hold dual citizenship with a European Union (EU) country, or
• you already have a long-stay visa for a country in the Schengen Area or residence permit issued by a member state

Visit travel-europe.europa.eu for a full list of who does and who does not require an ETIAS.

ETIAS application process

The application process for ETIAS is entirely online through the official EU website. Applicants aged 18 to 70 must provide accurate personal details and passport information.

Although most applications are approved within minutes, travellers should apply well before their departure date as some applications may require additional review.

Once approved, your ETIAS will be electronically linked to your passport. Border officers will verify your ETIAS before allowing entry.

What if your ETIAS application is refused?

If your application for an ETIAS authorisation is refused or if your ETIAS travel authorisation is annulled or revoked, you will be sent an email telling you why, which European countries you should appeal to, and the procedure.

More information

Visit the European Union website for more information, including how to apply for the ETIAS as a Canadian citizen.

								
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