The European Union once again postpones the implementation date of the ETIAS entry authorization system – and the requirement to issue a digital travel authorization will not take effect before April 2027. According to estimates, the initial launch phase is expected only at the end of 2026 and will be conducted gradually. The main reason for the delay: glitches and delays in the implementation of the EES biometric identification system – a necessary condition for the operation of the new system.
According to official sources in the European Union, the system will not be mandatory for use before April 2027, with a gradual activation (Soft Launch) beginning only towards the end of 2026. The implication for Israelis and millions of tourists from visa-exempt countries: entry into most European countries will continue to be conducted with a passport alone throughout 2026.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is an online registration system for travelers from countries that are not currently required to issue a visa for a short stay in Europe. It is similar to the American ESTA system and the British ETA, and will be required for entry of up to 90 days within any 180-day period – for purposes such as tourism, business, or transit.
The system will apply to travel to all 27 Schengen countries, as well as Cyprus, Romania, and Bulgaria. A total of 30 countries.
When is it expected to start?
The European Union has published an updated schedule, according to which the system will be launched gradually:
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End of 2026: Start of the initial activation (Soft Launch)
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End of 2026 to April 2027: Transition period – the authorization will not be mandatory
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From April 2027: Enforcement will begin, and airlines will be required to check for valid authorization at check-in
During the adaptation period, entry may be allowed even without authorization, as long as other entry conditions are met. Until April 2027, therefore, there will be no change for citizens from visa-exempt countries.
Reason for the delay: EES technology issues
The enforcement of ETIAS is contingent upon the full activation of the EES system – a biometric system for documenting entries and exits from Europe. EES is intended to collect fingerprint data, facial images, and entry and exit dates of non-EU travelers.
According to the regulations, EES must operate for at least six months before ETIAS enforcement begins. However, in practice, implementation is delayed due to technological challenges, manpower shortages, and delays in deploying biometric stations at major airports and land border crossings. Countries like Germany, France, and Spain have already warned of congestion and integration issues.
Application Details, Payment, and Validity
Upon launch, an online application submission will be required on the official Union website. The details known to date:
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Cost: 20 euros (subject to final approval)
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Validity: Three years or until passport expiration
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Entries: Multiple throughout the validity period
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Application Processing: Approval is generally expected within a few minutes
Children, seniors, and certain populations are expected to be exempt from the fee. The Union emphasizes caution against unofficial websites offering “early access” or expedited processing.
How Will ETIAS and EES Work Together?
The systems are designed to operate in conjunction. ETIAS will conduct pre-security checks, while EES will monitor passenger movement and stay within the Union territory. Subsequently, airlines will be required to check for ETIAS approval already at the boarding stage. Violation of the requirement may lead to fines.
Currently, EES stations are in pilot phase at airports in Spain, including Madrid and Malaga, with mixed results regarding speed and processing effectiveness.
In Conclusion
The new system for entry approval to Europe – ETIAS – is delayed again, this time at least until April 2027. Travelers planning flights to Europe in the next two years can continue to enter with just a passport. However, from the end of 2026, a gradual activation will begin, and it is advisable to follow official updates.
