No an ETIAS is not a visa. It is a pre-travel authorisation for nationals of countries already entitled to travel visa-free to Europe. 

A Schengen visa grants entry to nationals whose countries are not visa-exempt. 

ETIAS is a lighter-touch security check applied before you board your flight.

Nationals of approximately 60 countries that currently travel to the Schengen area without a visa will need ETIAS. 

This includes citizens of the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many others. EU citizens do not need ETIAS. Check your nationality

ETIAS is expected to launch in the second half of 2026, with a testing period before mandatory enforcement begins. Register your interest to be notified as soon as applications open.

The official EU fee is €7. Travellers under 18 or over 70 are exempt from this fee. 

Our service fee for handling your application is additional contact us for pricing

ETIAS is valid for 3 years, or until your passport expires,whichever comes sooner. 

During that period you can make multiple visits to any of the 30 Schengen countries, staying up to 90 days in any 180-day window.

A Schengen Visa is required by nationals of countries that are not currently visa-exempt. It is a formal entry permit requiring a consulate application, supporting documents, and biometric data. 

ETIAS (launching 2026) is a simpler online pre-authorisation for nationals who already travel visa-free. You need one or the other — never both.

Standard processing takes 15 days. 

In some cases it can take up to 45 days if additional documents are requested. 

Apply up to 6 months before travel — and no later than 15 days before.

You will receive a written explanation. You have the right to appeal. 

Our team can help you understand the reason and advise whether to appeal or reapply with stronger supporting evidence.

You can apply directly yourself. Our service is for those who want expert guidance, want to save time, or want to minimise the risk of errors that could cause delays or refusals. 

We handle the administration and track your application end to end.

Yes — Travel Visa Europe is part of The Travel Visa Company, a specialist visa services business with over 25 years of experience. 

This site focuses specifically on European travel authorisations and visas.

Your policy must cover at least €30,000 for emergency medical treatment and repatriation. 

It must be valid in all Schengen countries and for your entire stay. See our full guidance

ETIAS does not require travel insurance as part of the application — unlike the Schengen Visa. 

However, we always recommend comprehensive travel insurance for any international trip.

Yes — we have a dedicated trade service for travel agents, tour operators, and student travel organisations. 

This includes bulk application management, preferential pricing, and a dedicated account manager. Find out more

Yes. We handle group ETIAS and Schengen visa applications of any size. 

Group pricing is available and discussed as part of your trade account setup. Make a trade enquiry