New Rules British Tourists Need to Know About ETIAS from 2026

26 December 2025 1:10pm

Starting in 2026, British tourists will need to follow new travel rules when visiting Europe, particularly Mediterranean destinations such as Spain, Italy, Greece, France, and Portugal. Under the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), travelers will have to pass additional checks and comply with these regulations when entering up to 39 European countries.

ETIAS is separate from the existing Schengen Entry/Exit System (EES) and is expected to become operational later in 2026, giving travelers time to plan ahead. Importantly, ETIAS is not a visa; it functions as a travel authorization for short stays, similar to the U.S. ESTA system.

Key points about ETIAS for British travelers:

Validity: 3 years, linked to your passport. If your passport expires, your ETIAS must be renewed. You cannot apply if your passport has less than 3 months of validity.
Travel rules: You can enter and exit ETIAS countries multiple times, as long as each stay does not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
Cost: €20 for travelers aged 18–70. Free for minors and travelers over 70. EU citizens are exempt.
Application: Online, with processing times between 4 and 14 days. Applications must be made in advance—ideally 30 days before travel—and each application is individual.

ETIAS aims to streamline entry while enhancing security across participating countries, allowing British tourists to enjoy their trips with peace of mind.