Key facts
- The EU's new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is likely to be delayed until 2027.
- The ETIAS launch delay follows significant disruptions caused by the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES).
- The EES has resulted in long border queues and missed flights, impacting travelers and the aviation industry.
- EU leaders have rejected calls to suspend the EES, despite acknowledging its imperfections.
- ETIAS will require travelers from 60 non-EU countries to obtain pre-travel authorization for a €20 fee, valid for three years.
- A transitional period of at least six months is planned for ETIAS, during which travelers without authorization will not be denied entry if other conditions are met.
Europe's tourism sector has faced significant challenges following the chaotic rollout of the Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES), which records biometric data for non-EU travelers. The EES has been blamed for long border queues and missed flights, leading aviation industry groups to appeal for a pause. Despite these appeals and acknowledged technical issues, EU leaders have rejected calls for a suspension, deeming it unnecessary and impossible. Now, the planned launch of another new system, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), is also reportedly facing delays. While the ETIAS website indicates a launch in the last quarter of 2026, the Financial Times suggests it is unlikely to be rolled out this year and may be postponed until 2027. This delay is attributed to ongoing IT issues with ETIAS and the priority given to resolving problems with the EES. ETIAS, similar to the U.S. ESTA system, will require travelers from 60 non-EU countries to pay a €20 fee for pre-travel authorization, valid for three years. A transitional period is planned, during which travelers without authorization will still be admitted if they meet other entry conditions.