In 2024, the European Union (EU) introduced a new IT system, the Entry/Exit System (EES). Non-EU nationals may need to register with the EES before traveling to the EU.
In the last quarter of 2026, a visa waiver program for non-EU nationals who travel visa-free to the Schengen Area will be introduced. It will be called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
Entry/Exit System (EES)
All non-EU nationals who need a visa or are visa-exempt for short stays in European countries (up to 90 days in 180 days) must register with the EES.
The EES will collect the following data:
- Travel document data.
- Entry and exit dates.
- Biometric data.
- Facial images.
- Fingerprints for those who are visa-exempt.
In accordance with the GDPR, data is stored for five years or until it is no longer necessary for its intended purpose.
The EES will improve border management and security by reducing waiting times, combating identity fraud, and identifying overstayers.
For more information about the EES, see the European Union’s EES webpage.
European Information and Travel Authorization System (ETIAS)
Non-EU nationals who don’t need a visa for short-term visits to the Schengen Area must apply for a visa waiver using ETIAS before their trip, or they will be refused entry into the EU.
Having an ETIAS does not guarantee entry into the EU.
- Cost: 20 EUR
- Applications: Must be completed online or on the mobile app.
- Approval timeframe: Most ETIAS authorizations are granted within minutes, but it can take up to 96 hours. You should apply well in advance, as additional checks may be required.
- Validity: Three years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first. It can be used for multiple trips during its validity.
For more information about the ETIAS, see the EU’s website:
Note: Perk can’t apply or pay for the ETIAS on your behalf. You must complete this process yourself.
Exemptions
-
UK nationals and their family members who are beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement may reside in the territory of their EU host country and travel to other EU countries without ETIAS authorization, provided they hold documents proving their status. For more information, see the UK nationals in the EU webpage.
- Some family members of EU nationals are exempt from ETIAS authorization if they have the appropriate residency documents. For more information, see the Who should apply for the ETIAS webpage.