ETIAS After Brexit: How It Impacts UK & Indian Travellers in 2026
By Aviva Visas • Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Travelling to Europe is changing — again. After Brexit, visa-free access for UK citizens has already evolved, and in 2026 the European Union will introduce a new travel authorisation system called ETIAS. Whether you’re planning a short trip from the UK or the Indian subcontinent, knowing how ETIAS works (and who actually needs it) is crucial for smooth travel.
This guide explains ETIAS, the rules set by the European Commission and EU authorities, and what it means for UK and Indian travellers in 2026 and beyond.
📌 What Is ETIAS?
ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. It’s a pre-travel authorisation for travellers from visa-exempt countries who plan to enter the Schengen Area. It functions similarly to systems like the US ESTA or Canada eTA — but for short-term travel to Europe. Migration and Home Affairs
However, ETIAS is not a visa; instead, it is a digital travel authorisation linked to your passport that pre-screens travellers before they arrive at the border. Migration and Home Affairs
📅 When Will ETIAS Become Mandatory?
According to the official European Commission ETIAS page, ETIAS is not yet in operation, and applications will begin only after the system becomes active. The EU has stated that ETIAS is expected to start operations in the last quarter of 2026. Migration and Home Affairs
Once launched:
- travellers must obtain ETIAS approval before boarding a flight, ferry, or coach to the Schengen Area, and
- border guards will check the ETIAS authorisation together with travel documents on arrival. Migration and Home Affairs
🇬🇧 How ETIAS Affects UK Nationals (After Brexit)
🔹 Do UK Citizens Need ETIAS After Brexit?
Yes.
After the UK left the EU, British citizens no longer have unrestricted movement within Schengen. From late 2026 onwards, UK travellers will need ETIAS before visiting European countries that require it. Migration and Home Affairs
🔹 ETIAS Rules for UK Travellers
- Short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Migration and Home Affairs
- Valid for three years or until the passport expires (whichever comes first). Migration and Home Affairs
- Covers tourism, business, visiting family/friends, and transit — not long-term stays or work. Migration and Home Affairs
🔹 What You Need to Apply
To apply for ETIAS, you’ll need:
- a valid passport
- an email address
- a debit/credit card for the fee
- personal and travel details online
Most decisions are issued within minutes, though some may take longer if additional checks are required. Migration and Home Affairs
🇮🇳 How ETIAS Affects Indian Travellers
🔹 Do Indian Passport Holders Need ETIAS?
No.
Citizens of India (and other countries requiring a Schengen visa) must continue to apply for a Schengen visa; they do not use ETIAS. The ETIAS system is exclusively for visa-exempt travellers. Migration and Home Affairs
🔹 What This Means in Practice
- Indian travellers must follow the standard Schengen visa application process at a consulate or visa centre.
- If you do hold an existing Schengen visa, you do not need ETIAS. etiasonline.eu
- ETIAS does not replace the Schengen visa for citizens of countries that require one (like India). Migration and Home Affairs
🌍 Where ETIAS Will Apply
ETIAS will be mandatory for entry into 30 European countries — primarily the Schengen Area members. Countries include Germany, France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, and more. Migration and Home Affairs
Notably, Ireland is excluded because it is not part of the Schengen Area and maintains its own border policy. ETIAS UK
💶 Fee, Validity & Stay Limits
FeatureDetails (Official EU sources)Application fee~€7 for most adults (may be updated before launch) Migration and Home AffairsValidityUp to 3 years or until passport expiry Migration and Home AffairsStay limit90 days in a 180-day period Migration and Home AffairsMultiple entriesYes Migration and Home Affairs
Note: Some sources and EU discussions may lead to future fee changes, but as per the official EU ETIAS page, the initial fee is €7. Migration and Home Affairs
🚫 Travel Without ETIAS After Launch
Once ETIAS is operational:
- Airlines may deny boarding without ETIAS. Migration and Home Affairs
- Border guards may refuse entry at Schengen external borders. Migration and Home Affairs
So, having an approved ETIAS is essential if you are a visa-exempt traveller entering Europe for short stays.
🛡️ Official ETIAS Sources You Should Know
For the most accurate and updated information, always consult:
🔹 The European Commission ETIAS page – the primary source of truth on ETIAS rules. Migration and Home Affairs
🔹 The official ETIAS website (once active) via the EU domain: travel-europe.europa.eu/etias — all official applications will go through this portal. IATA
🔹 Frontex (EU Border Agency) ETIAS info — confirms launch period and traveller guidance. frontex.europa.eu
⚠️ Beware of unofficial or scam ETIAS sites offering instant approvals or charging extra fees. Always use the official EU site. IATA
🧳 Quick Takeaways
- UK citizens WILL need ETIAS after Brexit for short stays in Europe (from late 2026). Migration and Home Affairs
- Indian citizens continue to need a Schengen visa — ETIAS does not replace visas for them. Migration and Home Affairs
- ETIAS improves pre-travel security screening but isn’t a visa. Migration and Home Affairs
- Always use official EU sources for ETIAS information and applications. IATA
📞 Aviva Visa – Need Help With Your Visa Application?
For expert support with Schengen, UK, US, Canada, Australia and more:
🌐 Website: www.avivavisa.com
📩 Email: avivavisa@visaenquiry.co.uk
📞 Phone: 020 8099 6657