ETIAS for transit travelers: the current position
Transit questions depend on route, airport, documents, and whether the traveller enters the territory. As of May 15, 2026, ETIAS is not operational yet, no applications are being collected, and the expected start window remains the last quarter of 2026.
- Current status: Not currently in operation.
- Expected timing: last quarter of 2026.
- Official application fee when live: EUR 20, with official exemptions for some applicants.
What travellers should check
The practical sequence is to confirm whether ETIAS applies, confirm the trip fits the short-stay framework, and avoid paying unofficial pages that imply ETIAS is already live.
- Check the specific transit arrangement.
- Review every country involved in the itinerary.
- Confirm current official rules close to travel.
Independent support and official application path
ETIAS Connect is independent and not the official EU ETIAS website. When ETIAS opens, travellers should be able to apply directly through the official ETIAS website or mobile app. Any paid support from ETIAS Connect is optional and separate from official fees.
Open the official ETIAS portal