Timeline
ETIAS Implementation Timeline: Key Dates to Remember
ETIAS arrives in stages, tied to the rollout of the Entry/Exit System (EES). Here are the dates that matter.
12 October 2025 — EES rollout starts
The Entry/Exit System begins registering non-EU travellers (entry, exit and refusal data, including biometrics) at Europe's external borders. The rollout is progressive across border crossing points.
10 April 2026 — EES fully operational
The EES rollout completes across all external border crossing points. EES is the technical foundation that ETIAS builds on — the two systems work together but are not the same: EES registers border crossings, ETIAS screens travellers before they set off.
Q4 2026 — ETIAS launches
ETIAS is planned for the last quarter of 2026, after EES is operational. The EU will announce the exact start date several months in advance — until then, no action is required and no application is possible.
After launch — transitional and grace periods
The EU has indicated there will be a transitional period and a grace period following the launch, so travellers are not caught out immediately. Details will be confirmed at the time.
What to expect at each stage:
- Before launch: no action required; beware of fake application sites.
- Transitional period: travelling without ETIAS may still be possible under conditions.
- Full enforcement: boarding and entry require a valid ETIAS.