ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is planned to be launched in the last quarter (October–December) of 2026. Ukrainian citizens traveling to the EU under the visa-free regime will need to obtain an electronic authorization in advance and pay a mandatory fee. What is ETIAS? ETIAS is an electronic pre-travel authorization system for entry into EU countries for short-term stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period). Attention! ETIAS is not a visa, but a pre-travel screening of passengers. The authorization is issued online and linked to the passport. What will change for passengers? Before each trip to the EU, it is necessary to: - apply for ETIAS in advance (not on the day of departure); - carefully check all information; - have proof of authorization (on your phone or via email); - reapply for ETIAS if you change your passport. Without ETIAS: - the carrier may refuse boarding; - ticket costs will not be refunded; - border authorities may refuse entry. The carrier is not responsible for decisions made by border authorities. Even with a biometric passport, travel without ETIAS will not be possible! How to apply for ETIAS 1. Fill out the online application form. 2. Provide personal and passport details. 3. Answer security questions. 4. Pay the fee. 5. Receive confirmation via email. Recommendation: check all data carefully for errors before submitting your application. Application processing time: - a few minutes — standard; - up to 4 days — additional screening; - up to 30 days — complex cases. Delays may occur due to various factors: errors in passport data, inconsistencies in the application, matches with security databases, or suspicious answers to security questions. Cost €20 per person. Payment is made online during the application process. The fee is non-refundable, even in case of refusal. Important! - applications must be submitted separately for each person; - registration errors require a new application and new payment. Validity - up to 3 years or until the passport expires; - allows multiple entries. If you obtain a new passport, you must apply for ETIAS again. Where ETIAS is required Authorization is needed for travel to: 🇪🇺 Schengen Area countries; 🇧🇬 Bulgaria and 🇷🇴 Romania; 🇨🇾 Cyprus. Who does not pay Free of charge (but application is still required): - children under 18; - persons aged 70 and over; - family members of EU citizens. Fee exemption does not guarantee approval. Stay rules Up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Only short-term stays: - tourism; - visits; - business; - transit. Conclusion ETIAS will become a mandatory requirement for travel to the EU starting in 2026. To avoid problems, apply in advance. Make sure to carefully check all information and consider additional costs. Thank you for your attention, and we wish you comfortable and safe travels!