UK holidaymakers planning to visit Spain and Greece will be required to pay a £6 charge before booking their flights or accommodation under new travel rules set to come into effect. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a new travel permit for non-EU citizens, is expected to launch by summer 2025.

The ETIAS will necessitate UK travellers to secure authorisation prior to visiting any of the 29 countries in the Schengen area, including popular destinations such as Spain, France, Portugal, and Greece.

Individuals from outside the EU aged between 18 and 70 will need to shell out £6 to apply online. However, those younger or older will still need to apply but won’t be charged.

The EU has strongly advised all holidaymakers to obtain their permit before making any bookings to avoid potential delays.

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While most applicants can anticipate approval within a few minutes, some applications could take up to four days to process. In cases where further checks are needed, travellers could face a wait of up to 14 days or even 30 days if an interview is required, reports Birmingham Live. Therefore, Brits are encouraged to apply ‘well in advance’.

ETIAS applications will be cross-referenced with border and security records. Once approved, the permit will remain valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, after which travellers will need to reapply and pay the fee again.



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