This blog post will address whether you need a visa to visit European countries next year. To make a long story short, starting in 2025, you’ll need either a Schengen visa or ETIAS travel authorization. No more just getting off the plane and heading for your hotel. In this post, we'll cover which travel document you need, how to get it, and how much it will cost.
If you're planning an adventure to Europe in 2025, you might be wondering, "Do I need a visa to go to Europe?" Well, the answer is a resounding . . . maybe!
Europe is preparing to change entry documentation in 2025 to make its borders more secure. Whether you need a visa to go to Europe depends on your passport and the country you’re traveling to. U.S. passport holders, as well as those from Canada, Australia, and other countries, will have new requirements.
Let's dive into everything you need to know to ensure your trip goes off without a hitch and the border guards don't send you packing back home.
To start, let's talk about the Schengen Area.
What is the Schengen Area?
Where is it?
The Schengen Area (also sometimes called the Schengen Zone) is a region in Europe where 29 countries have established a visa-free travel agreement so people can move freely between the member countries.
According to the European Council, around 3.5 million people cross internal borders every day for work, study, or to visit families and friends, and almost 1.7 million people reside in one member country while working in another.
Can you imagine what your commute would be like if you had to navigate border controls every day? Yikes!
The Schengen Area Countries includes popular European destinations like France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, which makes it easy for travelers to explore multiple destinations in those countries without the hassle of border control. But you can't assume every country in Europe is a member. For example, the United Kingdom is not a member of the Schengen Area. It's also no longer a member of the European Union (EU).
What’s the difference between the EU and Schengen?
It's easy to make the mistake of confusing the Schengen Area with the European Union, but they’re not the same. The EU is a political and economic union of 27 European countries that share common policies and regulations.
On the other hand, the Schengen Area is a travel zone that includes some, but not all, EU countries. For example, Cyprus and Ireland are members of the EU but not part of the Schengen Area. And a few non-EU countries like Norway and Switzerland are members of the Schengen Area.
Clear as mud?
Don't worry. There won't be an exam. Just look up the "[country} entry requirements" online for each country you're going to visit and you'll find instructions and additional information there. Just be sure you're on the country's official website.
Next year, some people will need a Schengen visa, and others will need authorization from ETIAS. Which will you need? Let's see
Do You Need a Shengen Visa to Enter Europe?
What is a Schengen Visa?
The Schengen visa is a short-term visa that allows travelers to visit any of the Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. So whether you’re planning several romantic short stays in Paris or a long culinary tour throughout Italy, this visa gives you access to all countries in the Schengen Area without needing a separate visa for each.
Who needs a Schengen Visa?
Not everyone needs a Schengen Visa. It primarily applies to travelers from countries that don’t have a visa-free agreement with the Schengen Area. For example, American citizens and those from Canada, Australia, and a few other countries currently have visa-free access to Schengen countries for up to 90 days. However, citizens of India, China, or Russia, will need to apply for this visa before your trip. Always check the latest requirements based on your nationality.
Alert! Just because you’re from the United States., Canada, Australia, and other countries that don’t currently require a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to apply for an ETIAS.
How to get a Schengen Visa
It’s pretty straightforward to apply for a Schengen Visa. First, you’ll need to fill out a visa application form with your personal information and gather necessary documents, including a valid passport, a photo ID, travel itinerary or other documentation of your travel plans, proof of accommodation, evidence of financial means, and travel insurance. You’ll also need to prove that you intend to return home after your visit.
Next, schedule an appointment at the embassy or consulate of the country going to visit. If you’re visiting more than one country, apply at the consulate of the country where you’ll be spending the most time. During the appointment, submit your documents and attend a short interview, and have your fingerprints taken. Once approved (15-45 days), you’ll receive your visa, and you’re all set to explore Europe!
What is the cost?
The application fee for a Schengen Visa is €90 for adults and €45 for children aged 6-12. Kids under six get a free pass. However, fees can vary slightly depending on your nationality and specific circumstances. Some countries may also charge additional service fees, so it’s always best to check the exact cost with the embassy or consulate.
Do You Need ETIAS Travel Authorization to Enter Europe?
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System. Starting in 2025, travelers from visa-exempt countries will need to obtain ETIAS authorization before they visit the Schengen Area. ETIAS authorization will be valid for up to three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can stay up to 90 days in a 180-day period.
Who does this apply to?
ETIAS applies to travelers from countries that don’t currently require a visa to enter the Schengen Area. American travelers planning a European vacation need ETIAS authorization starting in 2025. The same goes for citizens from Canada, Australia, Japan, and many other countries. Essentially, if you didn’t need a visa before, you’ll now need ETIAS.
When does this start?
An exact date hasn’t been set yet. The website ways it will be operational from the first half of 2025. And a 3-6 month grace period will be in effect so the EU can work through any systems issues and train personnel. I suggest you check with the official ETIAS website before your trip to see if there are any updates.
How to get authorization
The good news is that obtaining ETIAS authorization is much easier than obtaining a traditional visa. The entire process is online.
You’ll need to fill out an ETIAS application form with personal details and travel information and answer some security questions. Once submitted, most applicants receive their approval within minutes.
What is the cost?
The cost of ETIAS authorization is €7 for adults, but is free for travelers under 18 and over 70.
How to Travel Through Europe with a Schengen Visa or ETIAS
You don’t have to print out anything since these are electronic travel authorizations. That means the officials at the Schengen Area border will have your information in their system.
However, I suggest you bring a copy of the visa or ETIAS approval on your phone or at least make a note of your Schengen visa or approved ETIAS authorization number, just in case.
Final Thoughts
Traveling to Europe in 2025 will bring new rules that we all need to be prepared for.
Some of you will need a Schengen Visa to enter certain European countries, and others will need ETIAS authorization. Which you'll need depends on what passport you're traveling on and which countries you'll be visiting.
So be sure to check the requirements in plenty of time to organize any documentation you might need.
Travel safe, and don't forget to write! 👋
❓❓ Looking for more travel tips? These posts will help you on your way.
10 Travel Planning Tips to Create the Perfect Trip
What Travel Documents Do You Need for an International Trip?
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