EU to Launch ETIAS Entry System, Affecting Asian Travellers

EU to Launch ETIAS Entry System, Affecting Asian Travellers

BRUSSELS, April 2026, 2026 — The European Union is set to introduce a new travel authorisation system that will require visa-free travellers, including those from several Asian countries, to obtain approval before entering Europe.

The system, known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), is expected to come into force in the final quarter of 2026, EU officials said.

It will apply to travellers who currently enjoy visa-free access to the Schengen area for short stays of up to 90 days, including nationals from countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Under the new rules, travellers will still be able to visit without a visa but must first complete an online application providing personal and passport details and pay a small fee. In most cases, approvals are expected to be issued within minutes.

Passengers without a valid ETIAS authorisation will not be allowed to board flights to Europe.

The EU is also rolling out a separate digital border system, the Entry/Exit System (EES), which will replace passport stamps with automated registration of travellers’ movements, including biometric data such as fingerprints and facial images.

Travellers from countries that already require visas — including Thailand, the Philippines and India — will not be affected by ETIAS and will continue under existing visa procedures.

European authorities say the new systems aim to strengthen border security while maintaining smooth travel for legitimate visitors.

The exact launch date has yet to be confirmed, with officials saying travellers will be notified several months in advance.