What is the ETIAS Visa Waiver project?
Citizens of UK, US, and many non-EU countries can currently travel to Italy - and other EU Schengen countries - without a visa or any prior authorization. However, it is planned that starting in mid-2025, travellers from the UK, US, Canada and other countries will have to obtain an online document known as ETIAS before entering any of the EU/Schengen member countries. ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will keep a record of who enters and leaves the Schengen zone. It functions in the same way as the American ESTA (Electronic System For Travel Authorization).
Which countries will require an ETIAS Visa Waiver?
These are the 30 EU Schengen countries that will require a valid ETIAS upon arrival at their borders: Schengen Countries
The launch of ETIAS will take place a few months after the introduction of the Entry Exit System (the EES). The EES will require identity, travel document data and biometric checks for non-EU travellers entering European countries for a short stay. Biometric data will not be collected with ETIAS.
You can find the lastest timeline information on ETIAS here: ETIAS Timeline Explained
Do UK Citizens Need a Schengen Visa to visit Italy?
UK citizens do not currently need a Schengen Visa to visit mainland Europe, but starting in mid 2025 UK citizens will need an ETIAS for entry to Europe. The ETIAS is not a visa requirement, and it will only take a few minutes of your time to complete an application form online and wait for an answer. Once you have an ETIAS it will be valid for three years.
When Will UK Citizens Need ETIAS to Visit Italy?
It is currently planned that ETIAS will launch in mid-2025, but the launch will be followed by a transitional period of at least six months. This means that, for travel during this time, travellers should already apply for their ETIAS travel authorisation, but those without one will not be refused entry as long as they fulfil all remaining entry conditions.
How does the ETIAS visa waiver work?
UK citizens planning to visit EU Schengen countries can apply for an ETIAS for trips for business, tourism or transit that last less than 90 days. The personal data submitted to apply for an ETIAS will be be checked across SIS / VIS / EUROPOL DATA / SLTD (Interpol) / EURODAC / ECRIS etc), the ETIAS screening rules as well as the ETIAS watchlist. If the application is matched to information from any of these databases, the application will undergo manual processing by the ETIAS Central and / or ETIAS National Units.
If an ETIAS application is approved, it will be issued for a period of three years or the date of the applicant's passport expiry, whichever date is sooner. Processing times can take up to 96 hours if additional checks are required. However, if additional documentation is required from the applicant, processing times can potentially take up to four weeks.
How to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver?
ETIAS is only relevant to travellers who travel visa-free to EU member states. When ETIAS become a requirement of travel, travellers can apply at the ETIAS website and the process should be quick and easy, but there are certain key requirements travellers will have to satisfy. The application process is aimed at taking approximately 10 minutes or less. The website processing ETIAS applications will support mobile, desktop and mobile devices. The types of information requested includes:
Key Eligibility Requirements for ETIAS Italy
Passport Requirements
- Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned travel date.
- Specifications: It should be machine-readable and preferably biometric, as this speeds up border checks due to enhanced security features.
Age Requirements
- General Rule: All travelers, regardless of age, need an ETIAS. This includes children and seniors.
- Fee Exemption: Minors under 18 and seniors over 70 do not have to pay the €7 application fee. However, their applications must be filled out with the consent of a parent or legal guardian.
Financial Stability
While not mandatory, proving financial stability can be helpful during additional screenings. You may need to demonstrate that you can financially support yourself during your stay, although this is rarely required.
Health Insurance
- Health insurance is not a strict requirement, but having travel health insurance is highly recommended due to the high cost of healthcare in Europe. It ensures coverage for any medical issues that might arise during your visit.
Clean Criminal Record
- The application process includes a background check. Minor offenses typically do not affect your application, but recent or serious criminal records might lead to rejection. ETIAS aims to ensure Europe's security by reviewing potential threats, especially those related to terrorism or serious crimes.
Common Ineligibility Factors for ETIAS Italy
Being aware of disqualifying factors is as crucial as understanding the requirements.
Criminal History
- The security check identifies serious criminal backgrounds. Offenses such as terrorism, sexual crimes, or human trafficking may result in a denial. Minor violations, like minor traffic offenses, generally do not impact eligibility, but recent serious convictions might.
Previous Immigration Violations
- Past visa overstays or violations of immigration laws in the Schengen Area may affect eligibility. These are reviewed individually, so it's important to be truthful in your application.
Public Health Risks
- The ETIAS evaluates applications for potential public health risks. This refers to highly contagious diseases, not general health issues. Travelers with such conditions might face restrictions.
False Information
- Providing incorrect information can lead to rejection. Ensure your passport number, name, birthdate, and other details match exactly what's on your passport to avoid delays or denial.
Third parties may apply on behalf of applicants, yet this must be disclosed at the time of submitting the application. Third parties will also need to provide their name and company information, where relevant, as well as their contact details and relationship to the applicant. More information on the ETIAS application form can be found here:
How Much Will ETIAS Cost?
There will be an ETIAS fee charged for applications for travellers between the ages of 18 and 70 is €7. There is no fee for travellers under the age of 18, or over the age of 70. Every traveller, regardless of their age, will require an approved ETIAS prior to their arrival to the Schengen Area.
Which documents will UK nationals need to enter the Schengen Area?
After introduction of the ETIAS vias waiver system you will need the following documents when you travel to Italy:
- Your UK passport. It must not be older than ten years and it should be valid for at least three more months beyond the intended date of departure from the Schengen Area.
- ETIAS Authorization (starting from 2025).
- Evidence on the purpose of entry. Documents that show why you are travelling to the Schengen Area, such as a hotel reservation or invitation for a business meeting.
- Proof of sufficient financial means. Documents that prove that you have the financial means to support yourself during your whole stay in Europe.
Generally speaking, you will still only need your passport and, from 2025, your ETIAS document. But keep in mind that border official can ask for the above documents too. If you're travelling with us (Invitation to Tuscany) you will have your invoice showing your villa rental and this will show your purpose of entry.
Find your
villas in Tuscany or
villas in Umbria
here.
Author: Dan Wrightson
Dan Wrightson grew up in Tuscany, Italy and has been writing about, sketching and exploring Tuscany and Italy since 1983.
30th Jul 2023 17th Jan 2025