eu family visit visa

Walk-In Schengen Visa FAQ: Your Comprehensive Guide to Applying for a Schengen Visa as an EU Family Member

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Schengen Visa Applications

Get all your questions answered about walk-in applications for Schengen visas as an EU family member. Find out the benefits, requirements, process, and more in our comprehensive FAQ guide.

“EU Family Members” refers to individuals who have a family relationship with a citizen of the European Union (EU). This includes spouses, registered partners, children (including adopted children), grandchildren, dependent parents, and dependent grandparents. It may also include other family members under certain circumstances, such as dependent siblings or other relatives who are dependent on an EU citizen. The specific definition of “EU Family Members” may vary slightly between different EU member states.

What are the specific benefits of walk-in applications for EU family members seeking a Schengen visa?

Walk-in applications offer the benefit of flexibility, allowing EU family members to apply for a Schengen visa without the need for a prior appointment. This can expedite the application process and provide convenience, especially for urgent travel plans. Get more details about walk-in application process for EU Family member on this link.

Can EU family members apply for a Schengen visa directly at the consulate/embassy without prior appointment through a walk-in application?

Yes, EU family members can typically submit their visa applications directly at the consulate or embassy without a prior appointment by opting for a walk-in application. However, it is advisable to check the specific requirements and procedures of the consulate/embassy beforehand.

Are there any specific advantages to choosing a walk-in application over a scheduled appointment for EU family members?

Walk-in applications can offer advantages such as shorter waiting times, immediate submission of documents, and the ability to complete the entire visa application process in a single visit. It can be a convenient option for EU family members who prefer more flexibility and faster processing.

Are there any specific requirements or eligibility criteria for EU family members applying through walk-in applications for a Schengen visa?

The requirements and eligibility criteria for walk-in applications for EU family members are generally the same as those for regular Schengen visa applications. This typically includes providing necessary supporting documents, demonstrating the relationship with the EU family member, and meeting financial and visa travel insurance requirements .

Can EU family members submit their visa application and complete the entire process in a single visit through a walk-in application?

Yes, one of the advantages of walk-in applications is that EU family members can often submit their visa application and complete all necessary procedures, such as biometric data collection and interview (if required), in a single visit to the consulate or embassy. This streamlines the process and saves time for the applicant.

What documents are required to prove that I have an EU family member?

To prove that you have an EU family member, you may need to provide the following documents:

• Proof of relationship: This can include a marriage certificate, civil partnership certificate, birth certificate, or any other official document that demonstrates the familial relationship between you and the EU family member.
• Proof of EU citizenship: The EU family member should provide a copy of their passport or national identity card to confirm their citizenship within the European Union.
• Residence documentation: If the EU family member resides in a different country, they may need to provide proof of their legal residence, such as a residence permit or registration certificate.
• Proof of dependency (if applicable): In some cases, if you are dependent on the EU family member for financial support or care, you may need to provide evidence of this dependency, such as bank statements or medical documents.

It’s important to note that the specific documentation requirements may vary depending on the country and individual circumstances. It’s recommended to consult the relevant consulate or embassy for detailed information and to ensure you have the correct documents to prove your EU family member status.

What documents are typically required for walk-in applications for EU family members applying for a Schengen visa?

The specific documents required for walk-in applications may vary depending on the consulate/embassy. However, common documents include a completed visa application form , valid passport, proof of travel medical insurance , proof of accommodation , travel itinerary , proof of financial means , and supporting documents demonstrating the relationship with the EU family member.

Is it mandatory for EU family members to provide proof of relationship or dependency when applying through walk-in applications?

Yes, it is typically mandatory for EU family members to provide proof of relationship or dependency when applying for a Schengen visa through walk-in applications. This can include marriage certificates, birth certificates, adoption papers, or other relevant documents to establish the family relationship.

Are there any specific guidelines or instructions that EU family members should follow during the walk-in application process?

EU family members should carefully review the guidelines and instructions provided by the consulate/embassy regarding walk-in applications. It is important to ensure that all required documents are prepared, accurately filled out the visa application form, and arrive at the consulate/embassy during the specified hours for walk-in applications.

Can EU family members avail expedited processing services or priority processing for their walk-in visa applications?

The availability of expedited or priority processing services may vary depending on the consulate/embassy. It is advisable to check with the specific consulate/embassy to determine if such services are offered for walk-in visa applications for EU family members.

What is the usual processing time for walk-in applications for EU family members applying for a Schengen visa?

The processing time for walk-in applications can vary depending on various factors such as the consulate/embassy’s workload, the complexity of the application, and the time of the year. It is recommended to inquire about the estimated processing time at the consulate/embassy during the visa submission to have a better understanding of the expected processing timeframe.

Can EU family members apply for a Schengen visa through walk-in applications at any consulate/embassy within the Schengen Area?

Yes, EU family members can generally apply for a Schengen visa through walk-in applications at any consulate/embassy within the Schengen Area . However, it is recommended to check the specific requirements and procedures of the consulate/embassy they plan to visit, as there may be slight variations.

Is it necessary for EU family members to be present in person for the walk-in application process or can they authorize someone else?

In most cases, it is necessary for EU family members to be present in person during the walk-in application process. The personal presence is typically required for biometric data collection, such as fingerprints and a photograph. Authorization or representation by someone else is generally not allowed for the walk-in application process.

What are the potential challenges or considerations for EU family members opting for walk-in visa applications?

Some potential challenges or considerations for EU family members opting for walk-in visa applications may include longer waiting times due to higher demand, limited availability of walk-in slots, the need to plan travel accordingly, and the possibility of additional document verification during the application process. It is important to be well-prepared and follow the consulate/embassy’s guidelines to mitigate any challenges.

Are there any additional requirements or supporting documents needed for walk-in applications for EU family members compared to regular applications?

Generally, the requirements and supporting documents for walk-in applications for EU family members are similar to regular applications. However, it is advisable to check the specific consulate/embassy’s website or contact them directly to ensure there are no additional requirements or documents needed for walk-in applications.

Can EU family members reschedule or modify their walk-in appointment if needed?

The possibility of rescheduling or modifying a walk-in appointment may vary depending on the consulate/embassy. It is recommended to review the consulate/embassy’s guidelines or contact them directly to inquire about their policy regarding rescheduling or modifying walk-in appointments. Flexibility may be subject to availability and the specific circumstances of the visa application.

Can EU family members choose to apply for a Schengen visa through a walk-in application process to expedite the visa issuance?

The walk-in application process itself does not guarantee expedited visa issuance for EU family members. While walk-in applications may offer the convenience of avoiding appointment wait times, the actual processing time is subject to the standard procedures and workload of the consulate/embassy. It is important to note that the processing time can vary depending on various factors, including the specific consulate/embassy and the complexity of the application.

Are there any specific advantages for EU family members opting for walk-in applications in terms of faster processing times?

Walk-in applications for EU family members may not necessarily provide a faster processing time compared to regular applications. The processing time is primarily determined by the consulate/embassy’s standard procedures and workload. However, by choosing a walk-in application, EU family members can have the advantage of avoiding the wait time for appointment slots, which can potentially expedite the overall application process.

What are the potential disadvantages or limitations of choosing a walk-in application for EU family members?

Some potential disadvantages or limitations of choosing a walk-in application for EU family members include the possibility of longer waiting times at the consulate/embassy due to a higher number of applicants, limited availability of walk-in slots, and the need to plan travel arrangements accordingly. Additionally, there may be no guarantee of faster processing times compared to regular applications, as the actual processing time depends on the consulate/embassy’s workload and procedures.

Can EU family members submit their visa applications on behalf of their family members through a walk-in application process?

Generally, visa applications for EU family members must be submitted individually, and each applicant, including family members, is required to be present in person for the application process. Walk-in applications typically involve the personal submission of biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph, which cannot be done by someone else on behalf of the applicant.

Are there any specific requirements for accompanying documents or supporting evidence for walk-in applications for EU family members?

The accompanying documents and supporting evidence required for walk-in applications for EU family members are typically the same as those for regular applications. These may include a valid passport, proof of relationship or dependency, travel itinerary , financial documentation, travel medical insurance, and any additional documents specific to the purpose of the visit. It is advisable to review the consulate/embassy’s guidelines or contact them directly to ensure compliance with the specific requirements for walk-in applications.

Can EU family members apply for a Schengen visa through walk-in applications if they are residing in a different country from their family member who is an EU citizen?

Yes, EU family members can typically apply for a Schengen visa through walk-in applications even if they reside in a different country from their EU citizen family member. The walk-in application process allows EU family members to directly submit their visa application at the consulate/embassy, regardless of their place of residence. Know more here.

What are the acceptable modes of payment for visa fees during the walk-in application process for EU family members?

The acceptable modes of payment for visa fees during the walk-in application process may vary depending on the consulate/embassy. Generally, cash, credit/debit cards, and sometimes bank drafts or money orders are accepted. It is advisable to check the consulate/embassy’s website (Example: Visa Application For Belgium from Ireland )  or contact them directly for information on the specific payment methods they accept.

Is it possible for EU family members to schedule an appointment if they prefer a walk-in application and the consulate/embassy allows both options?

If the consulate/embassy allows both walk-in applications and scheduled appointments, EU family members typically have the flexibility to choose the option that suits them best. They can either opt for a walk-in application by directly visiting the consulate/embassy without a prior appointment, or they can schedule an appointment if they prefer a specific date and time for their visa application.

Can EU family members receive any assistance or guidance from the consulate/embassy staff during the walk-in application process?

Consulate/embassy staff are generally available to provide assistance and guidance to EU family members during the walk-in application process. They can answer questions, provide clarification on document requirements, and offer guidance on completing the application forms . However, the extent of assistance may vary depending on the specific consulate/embassy and their available resources.

Are there any specific instructions or requirements for EU family members applying through walk-in applications regarding the completion of application forms?

EU family members applying through walk-in applications are generally required to complete the same application forms as those applying through other methods. The application forms may include personal information, travel details, and information about the EU citizen family member. It is important for EU family members to carefully read and follow the instructions provided by the consulate/embassy to ensure accurate and complete of the Schengen visa application forms .

Can I go for a walk-in appointment for a Schengen visa if my children are Irish citizens?

Yes, if your children hold Irish citizenship, you may be eligible for a walk-in appointment for a Schengen visa. As the parent or guardian of an Irish citizen child, you have the right to accompany them or join them during their travel within the Schengen Area. This allows you to apply for a Schengen visa based on your relationship with your Irish citizen child.

It’s important to note that specific procedures and requirements may vary between different Schengen countries and consulates. Therefore, it is advisable to contact the relevant consulate or embassy to confirm the specific application process and documentation needed in your situation.

Visa policy

What is the european commission’s role in visa policy implementation.

The common visa policy is a key component of the Schengen Area , with all 27 Schengen States applying the same visa rules. The role of the European Commission is to develop , monitor and implement the EU common visa policy , regulating which non-EU nationals need a visa to enter the Schengen Area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. When someone enters the Schengen Area, the 180-day period starts. This means that someone can enter the Schengen Area as many times as they want, but only stay for a total of 90 days, every 180 days. Visas for stays exceeding 90 days remain subject to national procedures. A Schengen visa is generally valid for every state of the Schengen Area.

What are the main elements of the EU common visa policy?

Visa requirements for third countries.

Regulation (EU) 2018/1806 of the European Parliament and Council establishes which third country nationals must be in possession of a visa when crossing the external borders of the EU and which are exempt from that requirement. “Annex I” of that Regulation lists the countries for which a visa is required, and “Annex II” lists the countries for which there is a visa exemption. Individual member states can further include derogations from the Annex I, for example for holders of diplomatic or service passports, refugees or stateless persons legally residing in a third country, or school pupils. A common list set down the countries whose citizens must have a visa even when they simply transit through the international (non-Schengen) part of an EU airport, called Airport Transit Visa or ATV . Member states can also impose individual ATV requirements on non-EU countries that are not included in this common list.

Visa-free regime with non-EU countries

Currently, 61 non-EU countries, two special administrative regions of China (Hong Kong and Macao) and one territorial authority that is not recognised as a state by at least one EU Member State (Taiwan) are visa free. Kosovo, another territorial authority not recognised as a state by at least one EU Member State, will be gaining visa free status starting 1 January 2024.

Out of the 61 non-EU countries with a visa free-regime, 27 have  visa waiver agreements  with the EU.

Any Commission proposal to grant visa-free status to a third country is followed by a legislative procedure, involving both the Council and the Parliament. The Commission conducts an assessment based on a variety of criteria relating, among others, to irregular migration, public policy and security, economic benefit, in particular in terms of tourism and foreign trade, and the EU’s external relations with the relevant third countries, including, in particular, considerations of human rights and fundamental freedoms, as well as the implications of regional coherence and reciprocity. New decisions on visa exemption are usually followed by bilateral negotiations on a visa waiver agreement.

The Community Code on Visas – commonly referred to as Visa Code – sets out the procedures and conditions for issuing short stay visas.

Operational instructions for the application of the Visa Code are further specified in the  Handbook for the processing of visa applications and the modification of issued visas  and the  Handbook for the administrative management of visa processing .

The visa code also helps improve cooperation with third countries in readmissions of irregular migrants, through the visa leverage mechanism . Under this mechanism, when a third country does not cooperate sufficiently in the area of readmissions, restrictive measures related to the visa processing and the visa fee can be taken. Such measures have been adopted for nationals of The Gambia ( Implementing Decision 1 , Implementing Decision 2 ).

Visa facilitation agreements with non-EU countries

The EU has visa facilitation agreements in place with certain non-EU countries. Under this simplified visa regime , non-EU citizens enjoy facilitated procedures to obtain a visa to the Schengen area, such as lower visa fees.

However, visa facilitation agreements can be suspended when a non-EU country no longer satisfies the conditions of the agreement. The general rules of the EU Visa Code then apply.

Suspensions can be triggered by an EU member state or by the European Commission. Currently two agreements are suspended: with Russia (full suspension of facilitation agreement) and with Belarus (partial suspension of facilitation agreement).

Visa facilitation agreements are linked to readmission agreements . Readmission agreements establish the procedures for the return to the EU or to the partner non-EU country of persons (own and third country nationals or stateless persons) in irregular situation.

EU States may also individually negotiate agreements on local border traffic with neighbouring non-EU countries. These agreements enable border residents of well-defined areas to cross the EU external borders, under certain conditions, without having to obtain a visa.

Suspension mechanism for visa free travel

The Visa Suspension Mechanism, set out in Regulation No 1806/2018 (article 7), enables Member States to call for a temporary suspension of a visa exemption in case of a sudden and substantial surge in irregular migration. In that case, a Member State can notify the European Commission, which can then decide to trigger the suspension mechanism.

Since 2017, the Commission has been issuing annual reports under the Visa Suspension Mechanism. Currently the visa waiver agreement with Vanuatu has been suspended under the suspension mechanism.

The Commission has recently proposed the revision of the suspension mechanism via the proposal amending Regulation (EU) 2018/1806 as regards the revision of the suspension mechanism.

Visa reciprocity

The EU aims at achieving full visa reciprocity with the non-EU countries whose nationals are exempt from the visa requirement. This means that EU citizens should not need a visa to visit countries whose citizens also do not need a visa to visit the Schengen area. For that purpose, a visa reciprocity mechanism is set out in Regulation No 1806/2018 ( article 7 ). Currently, the EU has achieved visa reciprocity with all visa-free third countries, except the United States. Citizens of Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania still need a visa to visit the United States.

Visa digitalisation

The Pact on Migration and Asylum proposed by the Commission in September 2020, set the objective of making the visa procedure fully digitalised by 2025. On 27 April 2022, the Commission presented a proposal on the digitalisation of the Schengen visa process , aiming to:

• replace the visa sticker and introduce the option to submit visa applications online through a European online visa platform,
• improve the visa application process,
• reduce the costs for EU countries and applicants.

The revised amending regulations 2023/2685 and 2023/2667  were adopted on 22 November 2023.

After a transition period of seven years, Member States will all have to use a common visa application platform to collect visa applications. This platform will allow applicants to carry out all steps of the application process, except the provision of biometrics (when necessary) and the verification of a new travel document. In addition, a digital visa will replace the visa sticker once the platform will become operational.

A portal prototype was created to test the future Schengen visa online platform. Find out more information on the dedicated Questions and answers webpage.

ETIAS stands for “European Travel Information and Authorisation System” and is meant to facilitate border control and security for visa exempt nationals traveling to the Schengen area. It is not a visa and is comparable to similar systems in the USA (ESTA), Canada (eTA), or Australia (eVisitor). Once active in 2025, visa exempt travellers will need to fill out an online form an pay a small fee before being able to travel to the Schengen area.

Interactive map on visa requirements

Applying for a Schengen visa

Legal documents related to visa policy

Statistics on short-stay visas

Share this page

• Schengen Visa - Start Here
• Guides Comprehensive Step-By-Step Guides About the Schengen Visa Requirements & Application Process
• Statistics Get the latest and most up-to-date Schengen Visa and Europe tourism statistics

Home > Blog > Family Member & Spouse Schengen Visa: What You Need to Know

Family Member & Spouse Schengen Visa: What You Need to Know

Uncategorized on 26 Dec, 2022

Are you travelling to the Schengen Area as the spouse or core family member of an EU citizen?

In that case, you might have lots of questions concerning the Schengen Visa requirements for spouses or family members. 

You might even ask yourself, “ Do I actually need a Visa to travel to Europe if I’m married to an EU citizen? ” or “ Do I really need a Visa if I’m a relative of an EU citizen? ” 

The short answer is, “it depends”. 

So bear with us for a few minutes and read this post all the way to the end. 

You’ll find out everything you need to know about the Schengen Visa requirements for spouses and relatives of EU nationals. 

Table of contents: 

• Does a spouse or relative of EU nationals need a Schengen Visa for Europe?
• Schengen Visa requirements for spouses and relatives of EU nationals

1. Does a Spouse or Relative of EU Nationals Need a Schengen Visa for Europe?

Under EU law, as the spouse or relative of an EU national, you may need or not a Schengen Visa to travel to Europe depending on your citizenship. 

For example, if you hold the passport of a state that has established a visa-free agreement with the Schengen countries, you do not need a Visa to Europe – although you may need to apply for an ETIAS Visa Waiver . 

ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System. The ETIAS Visa Waiver is a travel permit that enables you to enter the Schengen Area.

However, there’s no need to worry about the ETIAS Visa Waiver – this travel authorisation is relatively easy to get, and the application process is automated.  

On the other hand, if you hold the passport of a state that has not established a visa-free agreement with the Schengen countries, you need a Schengen Visa to enter Europe .

You might be thinking, “ There’s too much confusion surrounding bureaucracy. How in the world can I know what countries need a Schengen Visa to enter Europe with all the misleading information spread online? ”. 

Just spare a few minutes to read this post and find out whether or not your country of citizenship has established a visa-free agreement with the Schengen States.  

If your country of citizenship isn’t on the list of countries that need a Schengen Visa to enter Europe, then all you need to do is check whether or not you are eligible for an ETIAS Visa Waiver. 

If your country of citizenship is on the list of countries that need a Schengen Visa to enter Europe, then you must apply for a Schengen Visa, even if you are married to an EU citizen (or you’re a close relative of an EU citizen). 

Now, let’s clear up what we mean by “relative of an EU citizen”. 

According to the official website of the European Commission , you can apply for a Schengen Visa as the relative of an EU citizen if you’re a core family member – meaning spouse, child, dependent parent, or dependent grandparent.

The European Commission outlines that these rules are also applicable to non-EU registered partners if the country they are travelling to recognises the status of registered partnerships. 

For more information about registered partnerships, click here .

As a general rule, other relatives of EU nationals who need a Schengen Visa – such as siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. – may have their entry to Europe facilitated under certain conditions. 

The Schengen Member States do not necessarily have to grant this right, but they consider these requests on a case-by-case basis.

For example, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Spain , other relatives of EU nationals may have their entry to Europe facilitated when serious health grounds or disabilities require an EU citizen to personally take care of them.

Now, we bet you’re asking yourself this question: “ Why does the spouse or relative of an EU citizen need a Visa to enter Europe ? After all, as the spouse or close family member of an EU citizen, I should have visa-free access to the Schengen Area. ”

That’s a great question. 

If you’re the spouse or core family member of an EU citizen, you still need a short-stay Visa (which has a duration of stay of maximum 90 days) because the EU authorities must ensure that you are legally entering the Schengen Area. 

However, if you are the spouse or relative of an EU citizen and want to join them in Europe, you have the right to apply for a type-D National Visa and a residence permit issued by an EU country (the country where your spouse or relative lives in). 

Once you have obtained your National Visa and/or EU residence permit, you no longer need a short-stay Schengen Visa to enter Europe . 

If you’re looking to stay in Europe for more than 90 days and get an EU National Visa/ residence permit as the spouse or core family member of an EU citizen, do note that each Member State has its own rules for issuing the national Visa or residence permit for non-EU citizens. 

For example, according to italianvisa.it , to stay in Italy for more than 90 days, you must apply for a National Visa for family reunification at the Italian Embassy or Consulate in your country of residence. 

Once you have entered Italy using your National Visa, you can apply for a residence permit as a family member.   

Or, according to the German Federal Office for Migration and Refugees , you’ll receive a residence card within six months of registering in Germany as the spouse or core family member of an EU national. It is not necessary to separately apply for the residence card.

We hope you found this information useful. 

Now, let’s have a closer look at the Schengen Visa requirements for spouses and relatives of EU nationals. 

2. Schengen Visa Requirements for Spouses and Relatives of EU Nationals

Before we examine the Schengen Visa requirements for spouses and relatives of EU nationals, we need to clear up one possible misunderstanding.

The Spouse or Family Member Schengen Visa is not a special type of Visa. 

As the spouse or relative of an EU national, you need to apply for a type-C Schengen Visa that enables a traveller to spend up to 90 days within the Schengen Zone over six months (the 90/180 days rule ). 

However, the type-C Schengen Visa varies according to the travel purpose. 

For example, you can request a type-C Schengen Visa for tourism, business, medical reasons, study, or to visit your friends and family. 

However, as a family member of an EU national, your Schengen Visa is free of charge. You will also enjoy preferential treatment, as outlined on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Italy . 

This means that your Schengen Visa application is likely to be processed faster than ordinary applications.  

When applying for a Spouse or Family Member Schengen Visa, you need to submit the following documents: 

Do note that the requirement list above is not exhaustive.

The documents you must submit depend on the Embassy you apply to and your personal situation. 

For example, if you are the minor son/daughter of an EU national and your parents are divorced, you must submit a divorce certificate and custody decree. 

Or, if you’re a minor and want to travel alone to visit one of your parents who is an EU citizen, you must submit a travel parental authorisation from both parents.

If you have any questions concerning the Family Member or Spouse Schengen Visa application process, please feel free to contact us . 

If you need our team to provide you with the exact list of documents you must submit based on your personal situation, do not hesitate to request your Schengen Embassy Requirements Report (SERR) .  

We would be more than happy to help you make your application process faster, smoother, and stress-free.  

Confused Where To Start?

If you are confused, worried or stuck, the best next step to take is to Get a Free Consultation .

The session takes 5 to 10 minutes, starts immediately and you will get our advice delivered to your inbox by a Visa Expert within 1-2 hours. This is not a video or phone call, it is just like a live chat, where we can understand your situation better and an expert shares what you should do next.

There is no commitment to use our services at all, we just provide you advice based on our assessment of your situation and give you the next steps you need to follow to get your Schengen visa.

Click the Free Consultation button below to get the information you have been searching for

Visas Assoc.

Schengen visa.

• Free Consultation
• Personal Plan

Customer Care

• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

• Skip to main content
• Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Wait, do you need a visa to go to Europe now? The new ETIAS requirements, explained

Emily Olson

St. Mark's basilica in Venice is one place U.S. passport holders may not be able to get to without approval under the new ETIAS requirements Andrea Pattaro/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

St. Mark's basilica in Venice is one place U.S. passport holders may not be able to get to without approval under the new ETIAS requirements

Already thinking about next summer's vacation plans? If Europe is on your short list, there could be one extra step to take before boarding that plane.

Starting in 2024, American passport holders traveling to 30 European countries will need authorization via the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

Though it may sound complicated, the ETIAS and the reasoning behind it are quite similar to existing travel requirements and reflect increasing fear of terrorism in the U.S., Europe and around the world.

Here's what you need to know.

What is ETIAS? Is it a visa?

While some media outlets are taking a cue from the European Union's travel site and calling this a visa, in truth, ETIAS is more like a travel authorization form.

Summer air travel could be expensive and chaotic. Here's how to avoid trouble

"It's definitely not a visa," said Dan Hamilton, a senior non-resident fellow for foreign policy at the Brookings Institution. "It's an electronic entry-point, an authorization for countries that are currently visa-free."

Even the European Commission has said as much (and in bold letters) , writing this is "not a visa" but rather an "automated IT system" in a press release on the discussions around it back in 2018.

Whatever you want to call it, the ETIAS form is not what you'd seek if you're trying to work or live in Europe, but rather what you'll need for short-term trips — up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

Why is it being implemented?

These new requirements have been years in the making, stemming back to a rise in terrorism fears following 9/11. It's very similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization — or ESTA — program that the U.S. implemented in 2008 .

At the heart of ETIAS is an electronic database system to better track who's coming and going. According to the EU's latest report on terrorism data , EU law enforcement authorities arrested about 388 suspects for terror-related offenses in 2021, more than half of whom were accused of being associated with Jihadist groups based abroad.

The European Commission says ETIAS may have the added impact of cutting down on "irregular migration" (i.e. illegal immigration), but one thing the form is definitely not aimed to do is deter tourism in general.

'Revenge travel' is surging. Here's what you need to know

Crowded cities, inflated airfare and extreme heat disasters may all be making headlines this summer, but many of these European countries are still depending on tourism revenue to help them bounce back from pandemic slumps, Hamilton said.

And the pandemic is another one of the many reasons this new requirement has been delayed by decades — there was no need for ETIAS when countries closed their borders to all travel amid fears of spreading COVID-19.

"Another part of it is simply the pace of the way this parliament and European commission works," Hamilton explained in an interview with NPR. "They're ending their term and pushing through a lot of these directives because parliamentary elections happen next June."

"And getting 30 countries to agree on anything takes a long time," he added.

When does it take effect?

The European Union's website says the new authorization will start in 2024 but hasn't clarified a specific date. A press spokesperson for the union's travel arm did not respond to NPR's request for information.

And, similarly, a spokesperson for the State Department told NPR that the U.S. government website for international travel (travel.state.gov) would be updated "once the regulation goes into effect," but didn't specify when that would be.

"Frankly, I'd be surprised if this starts on time," Hamilton said. The rollout of ETIAS has already been delayed at least once.

But it couldn't hurt to plan ahead for any 2024 travel just to be safe.

Who needs to apply for ETIAS approval?

Basically, all passport holders from 60 countries who can currently travel to most European destinations without a visa — and that includes American passport holders — will now need to get ETIAS authorization for the same trip. That's about 1.4 billion people, by the European Union's estimation.

There are 30 European countries in total on the impacted destination list , including those in the "Schengen Area" — 27 European countries, many that are part of the European Union, that agreed to ease border restrictions to facilitate the movement of people within Europe.

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro

Those Schengen countries include top vacation spots like France, Italy and Spain.

The other three countries on the list are Romania, Bulgaria and Cyprus, which are all trying to become a part of the Schengen Area soon.

You can check the full list of both impacted passport holders and affected European destinations here.

How can you apply for ETIAS approval (and does it cost money)?

The application isn't open yet, but the European Union says that when it is, all necessary forms can be filled out via a web portal or mobile phone application.

You'll be asked to share personal information such as your date of birth, parents' names and details about your current occupation and previous criminal convictions. You'll also need to share a passport that is not set to expire in less than three months.

Oh, and you'll have to pay a fee of 7 euros (about $8).

When is the right time to apply?

If you want to play it safe, apply well in advance of your trip — no later than a month out.

ETIAS says most applications "are processed within minutes" and decisions are delivered within four days. But that wait could take up to 14 days if you are requested to supply additional information and up to 30 days if you're invited to interview.

It's Been a Minute

Presenting 'life kit': making the most of travel and your time off.

Those denied an application can appeal, but that process could be even lengthier.

The European Union says ETIAS approval will stay valid for three years or until the passport you used in your application expires.

Naturally, you'll also need to follow the ETIAS rules to stay in good standing.

Those with ETIAS approval can stay in the European countries on the list for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. So you can leave and come back, but you can't stay in the confines of the countries on the list for 91 days or more non-stop.

What happens if I don't apply for this and try to travel to Europe?

Your ETIAS approval will be linked to your passport. So without it, airport security (or cruise, bus or train line staff) won't let you board.

In other words, you can kiss that dream vacation goodbye.

• European Commission
• Europe travel
• European Union

This site uses technical, analytics and third-party cookies. By continuing to browse, you accept the use of cookies.

Header, social and menu of site

Consolato Generale d'Italia Londra

Il nuovo sito del Consolato Generale d'Italia Londra

Ricerca sito live

Eu family members.

Who is eligible to apply as a EU family member:

• Spouse, if not legally separated and not under 18 years of age;
• Civil partners;
• Children under 21 years of age (on application submission), including children of the spouse and children born out of wedlock, provided that, for children under 18 years of age, the other parent (if there is another parent), has given his/her consent;
• Children older than 21 years old if they are unable to support their indispensable necessities of life because of their health conditions entailing total disability (this must be proven);
• Dependent parents if they are unable to support their indispensable necessities of life because of their health conditions entailing total disability (this must be proven).

All documents must be printed out and presented in original plus a photocopy where required. Applicants should always appear in person. Applicants must provide:

• Duly completed application form [ click here ];
• Passport-style photo full front and white background and not older than 6 months;
• Passport or travel document (original plus one photocopy). The passport will be kept and returned with the visa, if approved;
• Cover letter;
• marriage/birth certificate (original plus one photocopy). Please, note:marriage/civil partnership certificates older than 6 months will NOT be accepted;
• certificates issued by a foreign authority other than the UK, MUST be translated in English or Italian and legalised by the Italian Consular Office of the issuing Country OR by the Consular Authority in the UK of the issuing Country;
• certificates issued by one of the Schengen countries will be accepted only if multilingual, otherwise please refer to second note;
• Italian nationals registered at the AIRE whose marriage certificate has been registered at the Consulate General of Italy are exempt from providing an updated version of the above mentioned certificate. They will be required to provide a self-declaration confirming to be married to the extra-UE citizen.
• EU relative’s passport (original plus one photocopy);
• Declaration from the EU relative’s stating the applicant is travelling – or joining – the EU family member.(for a template  click here>> )

PLEASE NOTE

Citizens of Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Palestine need to provide full names of mother and father and it must result from a birth certificate or Consular declaration.

THE VISA IS FREE OF CHARGE ONLY IF THE APPLICANT COMPLIES WITH ALL THE ABOVE REQUIREMENTS.

PLEASE BE AWARE THAT, AT THE TIME OF YOUR APPOINTMENT, YOUR APPLICATION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNLESS PRESENTED WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS. IF ALL THE ITEMS LISTED ABOVE ARE NOT PRESENTED, THE APPLICANT WILL HAVE TO RESCHEDULE A NEW APPOINTMENT.

THE INFORMATION OUTLINED ABOVE MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. NO LIABILITY CAN BE ACCEPTED FOR THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH CHANGES.

THIS CONSULAR ADMINISTRATION HAS FULL AUTHORITY TO EVALUATE AND REQUEST ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION, IF DEEMED NECESSARY, IN ADDITION TO WHAT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED. FURTHERMORE, THE APPLICANT, IS HEREBY INFORMED THAT SUBMITTING ALL THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION, DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ISSUANCE OF ANY PARTICULAR VISA.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Visiting the UK as an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen

What you need to know about crossing the UK border and visiting the UK.

What you need to enter the UK

If you’re an eu , european economic area ( eea ) or swiss citizen.

Irish citizens can continue to enter and live in the UK .

EU , EEA and Swiss citizens can travel to the UK for holidays or short trips without needing a visa. In other cases, find out if you need to apply for a visa to enter the UK .

You can cross the UK border using a valid passport which should be valid for the whole time you are in the UK .

EU , EEA and Swiss citizens can continue to use the automatic ePassport gates to pass through the border on arrival.

You cannot use an EU , EEA or Swiss national ID card to enter the UK unless you:

• have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme , or Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man’s settlement schemes
• have an EU Settlement Scheme family permit , or the equivalent from Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man
• have a frontier worker permit
• are an S2 Healthcare Visitor
• are a Swiss national and have a Service Provider from Switzerland visa

In these cases, you can continue to use your national ID card to enter the UK until at least 31 December 2025.

If you’re waiting for a decision on your application for settled or pre-settled status

You can still use your EEA or Swiss national identity card to enter the UK if all of the following are true:

• you’ve applied for settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man’s settlement schemes
• you’ve been issued with confirmation your application is valid
• you’re not applying as a joining family member

Other types of cards

British citizens can continue to use a Gibraltar identity card to travel to the UK .

Irish citizens can continue to use a passport card to travel to the UK .

You must have the correct documents to show at the UK border if you’re travelling to the UK . You cannot use any documents to enter the UK that are not listed here.

If you’re a non- EEA family member of an EU , EEA or Swiss citizen

You need a valid national passport, and one of the following:

• an EU Settlement Scheme family permit
• a UK -issued EEA family permit
• a UK -issued biometric residence card

You cannot use an Article 10 or Article 20 residence card issued by an EEA member state.

If you’re from a non- EEA country

Your passport (and visa if you have one) will be checked at border control. You’ll usually be asked why you’re coming to the UK . You can use the UK / EEA immigration lanes and the automatic ePassport gates if you’re from:

• New Zealand
• South Korea
• United States

Travelling from within the Common Travel Area (CTA)

The Common Travel Area (CTA) is made up of the UK , Ireland and the Crown Dependencies (Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man).

There are different document requirements if you are travelling to the UK within the CTA.

Business travel to the UK

If you’re an EU , EEA or Swiss Citizen travelling to the UK for a short business trip, you may not need to apply for a visa.

Under the UK ’s new points-based immigration system , you can continue to visit the UK without applying for a visa. In most cases you can stay for up to 6 months. You may participate in a wide range of activities including business-related activities such as meetings, events and conferences. You may enter the UK multiple times during that period but you may not live in the UK by means of frequent or successive visits.

As a business visitor, you cannot:

• do paid or unpaid work for a UK company or as a self-employed person
• do a work placement or internship
• sell directly to the public or provide goods and services

Read more about visiting the UK on a business trip and check whether you need to apply for a visa to carry out your intended activities.

Check the Visitor Rules and see the full list of business and academic activities you can do as a visitor to the UK .

Read more about what you can do when visiting from Ireland or one of the Crown Dependencies and check whether you need to apply for a visa.

Working in the UK or sending employees to work in the UK

If you require EU , EEA or Swiss citizens to work in the UK for longer than 6 months, they need to apply for a visa. Find out more about working in the UK .

If you employ or intend to employ an EU , EEA or Swiss citizen who commutes to the UK , see the guidance for frontier workers .

Trading with the UK

EU business can find out more about trading with the UK .

Commercial goods (merchandise in baggage)

You must tell customs (‘declare’) if you are bringing commercial goods into the UK in your accompanied baggage or small motor vehicle. Commercial goods are things to sell.

You need to make a full customs declaration if you are bringing commercial goods that are any of the following:

• above the total value of £1,500 into Great Britain
• above the total value of £873 into Northern Ireland
• excise , restricted or controlled goods
• weigh above 1,000 kilograms

Check the rules on merchandise in baggage .

Professional qualifications

Find out how to get your EU , EEA or Swiss qualification recognised in the UK .

School travellers entering the UK

Schools in france.

You can visit the UK using the France- UK school trip travel information form .

This allows:

• children who are EU , EEA or Swiss citizens to enter with their national identity card instead of a passport
• children who are citizens of other countries to enter without a visa, even if they would normally need one to visit the UK

Schools in other countries

All schoolchildren need a passport to visit the UK .

Children who are citizens of other countries may also need a visa - check if you need a UK visa .

What you can bring into the UK

Read the updated guidance on:

• how you bring horses to and from the UK
• how you bring endangered plants, animals or their products to and from the UK

Bringing your pet to and from the UK

Find out about pet travel to Europe .

Bringing goods into the UK

Some rules have changed when you bring goods for your own use from the EU to the UK . Find out more about bringing goods into the UK .

Controls on cash

Individuals travelling from the EU to the UK with £10,000 or more in cash will need to make a declaration. Find out about taking cash in and out of the UK .

Healthcare in the UK

EEA and Swiss citizens visiting the UK should check the guidance on healthcare for the latest information on access to NHS healthcare.

Driving in the UK

If you have a non- uk licence.

Visitors with a non- UK driving licence can drive in the UK . You do not need an international driving permit ( IDP ).

If your vehicle is not insured in the UK

If you have vehicle insurance issued in the EU , Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia or Switzerland, you should carry an insurance green card or other valid proof of insurance.

To be valid, other proof of insurance must be a document issued by the vehicle insurance provider which includes the:

• name of the insurance provider
• number plate or other identifying particulars of the vehicle
• period of insurance cover

Contact your vehicle insurance provider before you travel.

If your vehicle is insured in a country outside the EU , Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia or Switzerland, what you’ll need to do will depend on if your country is a member of the green card system .

If your country is a member, you will need to carry a green card.

If your country is not a member, your vehicle will need UK vehicle insurance .

Using your mobile phone in the UK

How much you pay for calls, texts and mobile data in the UK and the EU will depend on your operator. Please check before you travel.

Updated the section on school travellers with information on the France-UK school trip travel information form.

Updated 'School travellers entering the UK' as the List of Travellers scheme is no longer in operation.

Updated to remove information about travelling to England during coronavirus (COVID-19).

Updated information on use of ID cards to enter the UK if you're an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen.

Updated information for Irish citizens travelling to the UK from Ireland or the Crown Dependencies.

Those with an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen national ID card who have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme will be able to use it to enter the UK whilst they wait for the decision on their application.

Added information for EU, EEA and Swiss citizens who have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme by 30 June 2021 but not yet received a decision. Added guidance for Gibraltar identity card holders. Added guidance for Irish citizens.

First published.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.