Updated on April 14th, 2025

The new Entry/Exit System is not the only change on the horizon for short-term travel to Europe. ETIAS was initially expected to come into force 6 months after EES is launched. As of March 2025, ETIAS is expected to follow in the last quarter of 2026. It is also relevant for business travellers travelling to the EU for project-based business trips.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS stands for EU Travel Information & Authorisation System. It is travel authorisation that will be a requirement for visa-free entry to 30 European countries. These include Germany, the Netherlands and Poland. It must be obtained prior to travel and will cost €7 for 3 years. It is linked to a specific travel document.

Do I need ETIAS for international assignments?

If you are not an EU national and do not have a residence permit for a European country, you will need ETIAS in order to enter the EU for international assignments. Stays of up to 90 days are permitted in a 180-day period but entry and travel will be refused without ETIAS, so make sure you are well prepared.

I have a business trip to the EU coming up, what do I need to do?

Once ETIAS comes into force in late 2026, you will need to apply for authorisation before you travel to the EU. To do so, you will need a travel document which is not older than 10 years and does not expire in the next 10 months. You will also need to provide information such as your address, parents’ names, level of education and details of intended stay. Authorisation is generally granted within a few minutes but can take up to 30 days in certain cases if extra documents or an interview are deemed necessary. Please allow plenty of time before travel.

Business as usual

Once you have your ETIAS travel authorization, this is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner. So if you travel to Europe frequently for short-term assignments or project-based business trips, you will not need to re-apply before each trip.

Further Assistance

Are you not sure whether ETIAS will be relevant to your business trips? Would you like assistance in applying for your ETIAS travel authorisation? If you need any help at all, do not hesitate to get in touch with us at Expats Guide, we will be happy to help!

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