Everything you need to know about ETIAS and Europe’s city taxes

15.09.2023 - 16:56 / edition.cnn.com / Star

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The hour is finally approaching. From 2024, it will no longer be free to travel to Europe.

The ETIAS visa waiver program will allow entry into EU countries from $7.70. As the name suggests, it isn’t a visa – it’s a system for visitors from countries who don’t require visas to enter Europe, to preregister their visits. Those who currently need visas to enter will still need them,

While many US citizens appear shocked by the move, they might be surprised that the ETIAS system is modeled on the ESTA visa waiver program, which was introduced in 2009 by the United States. And, of course, citizens of many countries need “real” visas to EU countries – which is not only a costly process, but a time-consuming one, too.

ETIAS will join the myriad accommodation and “tourist taxes” that are already charged around Europe. Here’s what to know about them.

Originally slated to start in May 2023, ETIAS has been pushed back several times – but now appears to be on track to launch in 2024.

Citizens of the 60 or so non-EU countries who don’t currently need a visa to the EU – such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Singapore and the UAE. EU residents are exempt, whatever their nationality.

Those who currently need a visa to enter the EU, on the other hand, will still need a visa.

ETIAS will be run along similar lines to the United States’ ESTA program. Travelers must request permission to enter the EU before their travel through a simple online process.

It’ll cost 7 euros ($7.70) and will cover multiple entries for three years, or until your passport expires – whichever comes first. That’s cheaper than an ESTA, which costs $21 for two years.

Europe won't charge for entry just yet

Applications should be processed in “minutes” with the vast majority completed in 96 hours, the EU predicts. “Some applicants may be asked to provide additional information or documentation or to participate in an interview with national authorities, which may take up to additional 30 days,” they warn, however. It suggests not booking flights or accommodation until you have confirmation.

For more details, check out the official ETIAS website here – going through third parties may incur extra charges.

Most cities in continental Europe now charge a “tourist tax” for overnight visitors – usually a few euros added to your bill at the end of your stay, though sometimes it must be paid in cash. If you’re staying in an Airbnb, hosts will often collect this from you on arrival.

This popular Italian region is imposing restrictions on tourists