16/06/2026
✈️ Traveling to Europe in 2026? Don't Let This Surprise You at the Airport.
Most Americans have never needed to think twice before hopping on a flight to Europe.
That's about to change.
Starting now, travelers heading to most European countries will need to complete a new 🇪🇺 ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) application before departure. At the same time, Europe is rolling out the EES (Entry/Exit System), which will replace passport stamps with biometric entry and exit tracking.
Here's the good news:
✅ ETIAS is not a visa
✅ The application is expected to take just a few minutes online
✅ Most approvals should be issued quickly
✅ It's expected to cost around €20 and remain valid for up to 3 years
What changes at the airport?
📸 Your photo may be taken
👆 Fingerprints may be scanned
🛂 Border crossings may take a little longer while the new system is implemented
My advice? Add this to your travel checklist now so you're not scrambling before your next European adventure.
I've created this quick Navigator Nick guide to help you understand exactly what ETIAS and EES are, who needs them, and what to expect when traveling to Europe in 2026 and beyond.
👇 Are you planning a trip to Europe in 2026 or 2027? Let me know where you're headed!
