As the European Travel Information and Authorisation System launch date approaches, one of the most common questions has been about the ETIAS validity period. To answer this query, this article explains exactly how long an ETIAS visa waiver lasts and when travellers need to reapply.
ETIAS will be launched in 2026 and become a mandatory entry requirement for people arriving in Europe from visa-exempt countries.
The good news is that the new visa waiver can be used for several years without renewal. By completing the online ETIAS application process just once, travellers have access to the Schengen countries for up to 3 years.
More key information about the validity of ETIAS can be found below.
HOW LONG DOES AN ETIAS VISA WAIVER LAST?
The ETIAS visa waiver is valid from the date of issue.
From this point, the ETIAS visa waiver is valid for 3 years or until the associated passport expires, whichever comes first.
The ETIAS validity period is longer than that of similar kinds of travel authorisation: ESTA for the US is valid for just 2 years, for example.
In addition to being quick to apply for, the long validity period is one of the greatest benefits of ETIAS.
ETIAS VALIDITY AND PASSPORT EXPIRATION DATE
The answer to the question "how long does an ETIAS visa waiver last?" depends on your passport expiry date.
ETIAS is valid for up to 3 years, provided your passport remains valid. The travel authorisation is linked to the passport used to apply and cannot be transferred to another passport.
Here are some examples to better illustrate the ETIAS validity period.
Example 1: Your passport expires 1 year after you apply for ETIAS
In this scenario, you would need to reapply for ETIAS in 1 year’s time, with your new passport.
Example 2: Your passport expires 5 years after you apply for ETIAS
In this scenario, you would need to reapply for ETIAS in 3 years’ time. ETIAS is valid for up to a maximum of 3 years.
One of the ETIAS requirements is that the applicant’s passport must be valid for at least 3 months after the intended date of departure from the Schengen Area.
DUAL NATIONALITY AND ETIAS VALIDITY
People with dual citizenship who have passports from 2 ETIAS-eligible countries can apply using either one.
However, if one of the passports expires in fewer than 3 years, it is advisable to use the other travel document to take full advantage of how long an ETIAS visa waiver lasts.
ETIAS applicants with dual nationality are reminded that they must request the permit and enter Europe using the same passport.
HOW MANY TIMES CAN I USE AN ETIAS VISA WAIVER?
During the ETIAS validity period, you can use your ETIAS visa waiver multiple times. There is no need to reapply for ETIAS before each trip to Europe - you only need to get a new visa waiver after 3 years or when the passport expires.
Bear in mind that you cannot stay more than 90 days in any 180-day period.
As ETIAS is valid for the entire Schengen zone, you can use the same permit to visit top European destinations such as France, Spain, Italy, and Germany either on the same trip or across several.
HOW CAN I RENEW MY ETIAS VISA WAIVER?
You can apply for a new ETIAS when the validity period is coming to an end. You’ll need to wait until you have your new passport details if you have renewed your passport.
You need to follow the same process as when you made your original application, this includes filling out the online form with your current passport details.
Provided your circumstances have not changed, your new ETIAS should be quickly approved. Make sure your passport meets the validity requirements before getting started with your application.
CAN THE ETIAS VALIDITY PERIOD BE EXTENDED?
ETIAS is valid for short stays in Europe and cannot be extended. Visitors must leave the Schengen Area within 90 days, permit holders can return once the 180-period has elapsed.
In the case of EU-third country bilateral agreements, it may be possible for foreign citizens to stay in a specific EU country beyond the 90-day Schengen limit. This does not affect how long an ETIAS visa waiver lasts, bilateral agreements are between an individual Schengen state and the traveller, not an extension of ETIAS.
Otherwise, a visa or other permit is required to stay in ETIAS countries for longer than 90 days. Applicants are usually required to attend an embassy or consulate to obtain a visa and provide supporting material such as proof of funds and medical insurance.