Major new visa requirements for Australians headed to Europe – what you need to know
Australians planning a trip to Europe in 2025 will face new rules ahead of their visit.
Australians used to be able to travel to the continent, which is rich in history and culture, without a visa. But that is no longer the case.
The European Union has introduced a new entry system for Australian travellers, which includes a new application fee of $11.50.
It’s all part of the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a new entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals of 60 countries, including Australians.
The program will start in the first half of 2025.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is an ETIAS?
It is a new travel permit requirement for all Australians travelling to 30 countries within Europe.
The participating countries are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.
The European Union has introduced new rules for Australian travellers, including a new application fee of $11.50
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System is the new entry programme for 30 European countries
What do you get out of it?
With a valid ETIAS travel authorization, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you like for short stays. Normally, this is up to 90 days in any 180-day period, the EU reports on its website.
“However, it does not guarantee entry. Upon arrival, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions.”
How does it work?
The ETIAS is linked to your passport.
It is valid for up to three years after the passport expiry date, whichever comes first.
If you get a new passport, you will also need to apply for a new ETIAS travel authorization.
How can I apply?
Go to the ETIAS website and complete the application form online, or submit an application via the ETIAS mobile app.
The cost is seven euros, which converts to approximately $11.50.
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is linked to your passport and will likely be processed within a few minutes
Processing times
According to the EU, most applications are processed within minutes.
However, it is possible that the processing of your application may take longer.
If so, you will receive a decision within four days.
‘Please note that this period may be extended by up to 14 days if you are asked to provide additional information or documentation, or by up to 30 days if you are invited for an interview.’
After the application
“You will receive an email confirming the submission of your application. This will also contain your unique ETIAS application number: please keep this number for future use,” the EU said.
Once your application has been processed, you will receive an email with the results.
‘When you receive your ETIAS travel authorization, check that your name, passport number and other details are correct: if there is a mistake, you will not be allowed to cross the border.’
The ETIAS is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
What happens at the border?
The ETIAS is linked to your travel document.
“Make sure you bring the same document you used when applying for ETIAS,” the EU said.
‘Otherwise you will not be allowed to board your plane, bus or ship, or enter any of the European countries for which ETIAS is mandatory.’