The system is expected to be operational by the end of 2026, and understanding its fee structure will help travelers from visa-exempt countries plan their trips efficiently.
This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the ETIAS fee, including basic costs, payment methods, and exemptions.
- What is the ETIAS Fee and Why is it Required?
- ETIAS Application Fee: Breaking Down the Costs
- ETIAS Processing Fee Timeline
- ETIAS Cost Per Person: Individual vs. Family Applications
- Essential Information on the ETIAS Fee for Schengen Travel
- ETIAS Payment Methods: Options for Secure Transactions
- ETIAS Fee for Minors: Age-Based Exemptions Explained
- ETIAS Fee for Senior Citizens: Benefits for Older Travelers
- Additional ETIAS Service Charges: What to Watch For?
- Why Choose OneVasco?
- FAQs
What is the ETIAS Fee and Why is it Required?
The ETIAS fee is mandatory for all eligible travelers wishing to obtain the ETIAS travel authorization (to be launched in 2026) to enter the Schengen Zone.
Implemented as part of the European Union’s enhanced security measures, the ETIAS aims to strengthen border management while facilitating travel for legitimate visitors. The fee covers administrative costs associated with processing applications and maintaining the system’s infrastructure.
The standard ETIAS fee applies to most travelers; however, certain exemptions are available based on age and other factors. This payment is part of the pre-screening process designed to identify potential security, migration, or public health risks before travelers arrive at European borders.
ETIAS Application Fee: Breaking Down the Costs
The ETIAS application fee is set at €7 for most travelers aged 18 to 70 years old. Here are some facts:
- This is a one-time payment that covers the processing of your application.
- There is no application fee for applicants under 18 and above 70 years of age.
- The authorization is valid for up to three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
- This fee payment does not guarantee approval.
The fee structure is designed to be affordable while still covering the system’s administrative costs.
ETIAS Processing Fee Timeline
The ETIAS processing fee is paid at the time of completing the application, before any decision is made regarding your travel authorization.
Once you’ve completed your application form with all required information, you’ll proceed to the payment section, where you’ll be prompted to pay the fee.
Processing times for ETIAS applications typically follow this timeline:
- Application submission and fee payment
- Automated processing (most applications are approved within minutes)
- Manual review if required (may take up to 96 hours)
- Final decision issuance
The processing fee covers all these steps, regardless of how long your specific application takes to process. There are no additional ETIAS processing fees for applications requiring manual review.
ETIAS Cost Per Person: Individual vs. Family Applications
Unlike some visa systems, ETIAS does not offer family packages or group discounts. Each traveler must submit their application and pay their individual fee.
For families traveling together, this means:
| Category | Fees |
| Adults | €7 per person |
| Children under 18 | FREE |
| Seniors over 70 | FREE |
Essential Information on the ETIAS Fee for Schengen Travel
When planning your European adventure, understanding the ETIAS fee for Schengen travel is essential.
The authorization covers all 30 Schengen Area countries, allowing for multiple entries during its validity period. This makes the €7 fee particularly economical for travelers planning to visit multiple European countries.
The core ETIAS Schengen countries include:
| Austria | Denmark | Hungary | Luxembourg | Slovakia |
| Belgium | Estonia | Iceland | Malta | Slovenia |
| Bulgaria | Finland | Italy | Netherlands | Spain |
| Croatia | France | Latvia | Poland | Sweden |
| Czech Republic | Germany | Liechtenstein | Norway | Switzerland |
| Greece | Lithuania | Portugal | Romania | Portugal |
Suggested Read: How to Book a Schengen Visa Appointment
ETIAS Payment Methods: Options for Secure Transactions
The European Union has implemented various ETIAS payment methods to accommodate travelers from different regions. According to official information from the European Commission, the following payment options will be available:
- Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.)
- Debit cards with international payment capabilities
All payments are processed through a secure payment gateway to ensure the protection of travelers’ financial information. The payment system will support multiple currencies, automatically converting them to euros at the current exchange rates, although the official ETIAS fee is denominated in euros.
The payment process is integrated directly into the online application system, allowing for a seamless experience. Once payment is confirmed, your application proceeds to processing without further action required.
Note: The payment is non-refundable once the application is submitted.
ETIAS Fee for Minors: Age-Based Exemptions Explained
One of the most significant aspects of the ETIAS fee structure is the exemption for minors. The ETIAS fee for minors under 18 years of age is completely waived, meaning children and teenagers can obtain travel authorization free of charge.
This exemption makes family travel to Europe more affordable and accessible. However, it’s important to note that while minors don’t pay the fee, they still need their own ETIAS authorization. Parents or guardians must complete a separate application for each minor traveling with them.
The age verification is based on the traveler’s age at the time of application submission, not at the time of travel. This means that if a traveler turns 18 after receiving their ETIAS but before traveling, they won’t need to reapply or pay the fee retroactively.
ETIAS Fee for Senior Citizens: Benefits for Older Travelers
Similar to the exemption for minors, the ETIAS fee for senior citizens aged 70 and above is also waived. This exemption recognizes that many seniors travel on fixed incomes and helps make European travel more accessible to older visitors.
Senior travelers must complete the full ETIAS application but are exempt from paying the fee. The system automatically applies this exemption based on birth date. This reflects the EU’s aim to ease travel for lower-risk age groups.
Additional ETIAS Service Charges: What to Watch For?
Travelers should be aware of potential ETIAS service charges from third-party providers. The European Union has warned about unofficial websites that may offer ETIAS application assistance for additional fees.
The only legitimate way to apply for an ETIAS is through the official EU portal, and the only mandatory payment is the €7 application fee (for those not exempt). Any service charging significantly more is likely adding service fees for assistance that most travelers don’t need.
These third-party services may offer:
- Application form completion assistance
- Document review
- Customer support
- Expedited processing claims (which are meaningless since the official system processes most applications automatically)
The EU recommends applying directly through the official channels to avoid unnecessary ETIAS service charges and potential scams.
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FAQs
What is the application fee for ETIAS?
The ETIAS fee is €7 for travelers aged 18–70. It’s a one-time payment valid for up to three years or until your passport expires. Those under 18 and over 70 are exempt from paying the fees.
Are there any age exemptions for the ETIAS fee?
Yes, travelers under 18 and over 70 don’t need to pay the fee. However, all travelers must still complete the ETIAS application.
How can I pay the ETIAS application fee?
You can pay online using credit/debit cards. Payments are secure and processed in euros.
Is the ETIAS fee refundable if my application is denied?
No, the ETIAS fee is non-refundable even if your application is denied. It covers processing and review costs.
Can I pay the ETIAS fee in currencies other than euros?
Yes, you can pay in your local currency, which will be converted to euros. Additional conversion fees may apply from your bank.
Do I need to pay the ETIAS fee each time I travel to Europe?
No, the fee covers multiple trips over three years or until your passport expires. You pay again only when reapplying.
Will the ETIAS fee amount change over time?
The fee is currently €7, but it may be revised in the future. Any changes will be announced through official EU channels.
Does the ETIAS fee cover multiple trips within its validity period?
Yes, it allows unlimited entries during the three-year validity, as long as you stay within the 90-day limit per 180-day period.
