After many months of waiting, we now have the details from the EU on its scheme for allowing non-EU citizens (Britons included) into Spain and the wider EU bloc under the 90 day rule.
The EU waiver scheme is called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias).
How the the EU visa waiver scheme will work
Currently, visitors from the UK can visit Spain (and the other countries within the Schengen area) visa free for 90 days in a rolling 180 day period. Under the new Etias, how this 90/180 day regime is controlled is going to change.
UK citizens and other non-EU citizens will have to apply for the Etias visa waiver to travel to the EU. The duration of the stay with the visa waiver remains at 90 days in 180. Longer stays will require a visa. The visa waiver document will be presented and checked at border entry points, along with your passport, although it is expected that your passport will no longer be stamped.
The Etias visa waiver is issued for 3 years and allows for an unlimited number of visits within the 90/180 day regime.
How much will the Etias visa waiver cost?
€7 (for most people) – which commentators agree is not a large sum, and it compares favourably with the American Esta equivalent, which at the time of writing is about €18.80.
When will the Etias scheme start?
An exact date is yet to be set, but expect the introduction to be in the first half of 2025.
Applications and payment will processed electronically. As well as personal details, you will need your passport information, and answer question about medical conditions and your criminal record.
We have prepared an FAQs section about Etias to help.
Is Estias the same as the EES (Entry/Exit System)
No. Although it is part of the same border control strategy. EES is a computer system that will replace the stamping of passports on entry/exit from Spain and other Schengen border points. Click to read more about the Entry / Exit System (EES).
