The European Union has announced that British travellers will not need to apply for the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) immediately after it is introduced.
There will be a six-month transitional period during which Brits and other non-EU visitors can still enter the EU without the necessary authorisation.
This delay follows the postponement of the EU’s European Entry and Exit System (EES) last year. Once the EES is operational later this year, British visitors will need to apply for an ETIAS, which costs €7 and lasts for three years.
After the six-month transitional period, a further grace period will allow first-time travellers to the EU to enter without an ETIAS, provided they meet other entry requirements.
Shaun Jones, co-owner of Swindon Travel Hub, said: “This announcement is great news for our customers, as it gives them extra time to plan their trips without the immediate need for an ETIAS.
“We’ll be keeping all our customers updated on the latest information regarding when they will need to apply for their visa waiver, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.”
