From 2025 onwards, travellers planning to visit Ibiza and other Schengen Area countries will be required to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) permit. This new requirement, introduced by the European Union, aims to strengthen border security and better manage visitor flows into EU member states. The ETIAS permit will affect nationals from over 60 countries who have traditionally enjoyed visa-free access to Europe.
If you’re planning a trip to Ibiza or any other Schengen country, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with this new system. Here, we break down everything you need to know about this new document, from how it works to who needs it, how to apply, and its potential impact on travellers.
What is it?
ETIAS is an electronic travel authorisation that functions similarly to the US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) or Canada’s eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization). While it’s not a visa, it acts as a pre-travel security check, screening travellers for potential risks before they enter the Schengen Area. The goal is to improve safety, reduce irregular migration, and streamline entry into member countries.
Unlike a visa, the process for obtaining ETIAS is much quicker and less complicated. Applicants complete an online form, pay a small fee, and typically receive a decision within minutes. Once approved, the authorisation is valid for up to three years or until the associated passport expires, whichever comes first.
Who needs it?
Nationals from over 60 visa-exempt countries will need to apply for ETIAS before visiting Spain or any other Schengen Area country. This includes travellers from countries such as:
- The United Kingdom
- The United States
- Canada
- Australia
- New Zealand
- Japan
- Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico
These travellers, who previously did not need a visa for short stays in Europe, must now register for ETIAS to be granted entry. Importantly, ETIAS applies to those visiting for tourism, business, medical, or transit purposes for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
How does the ETIAS application work?
The ETIAS application process is simple and entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how it works:
- Complete the online form
Travellers must provide personal details, such as their full name, date of birth, gender, and nationality. Passport details, contact information, and intended country of entry must also be submitted. - Answer security questions
Applicants will be asked about their criminal history, previous travel to conflict zones, and past immigration violations. - Pay the application fee
The cost of ETIAS is €7, and it must be paid using a debit or credit card. However, minors (under 18) and seniors (over 70) are exempt from the fee, although they still need to apply for it. - Receive your decision
Most applicants will receive a decision within minutes. However, in cases where further checks are needed, the process could take up to 96 hours (four days).
Once approved, travellers are free to enter the Schengen Area multiple times using the same ETIAS, provided the associated passport remains valid.
How much does it cost?
The ETIAS application fee is set at €7. This fee is only payable by applicants aged 18 to 70. Children under 18 and seniors over 70 are exempt from paying the fee but must still complete the application process.
Unlike a traditional visa, the cost is significantly lower, making it accessible to the vast majority of travellers. Importantly, the fee is paid online at the time of application using a debit or credit card.
How long is it valid?
Once your ETIAS application is approved, it will remain valid for three years or until your passport expires — whichever comes first. During this period, you can enter Spain or any other Schengen Area country multiple times without needing to reapply.
For each visit, you can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is ideal for tourists, business travellers, and short-term visitors. However, it’s important to note that ETIAS does not replace visas for longer stays, such as work or study visas.
What happens if you forget to apply for it?
One of the most significant risks associated with ETIAS is that travellers may be unaware of the requirement or forget to apply in advance. Without an approved document, entry into Spain or any other Schengen Area country could be denied.
When boarding a flight, airline staff will check that you have a valid ETIAS linked to your passport. If you fail to present one, you may be refused boarding. To avoid this, travellers are encouraged to apply well in advance of their travel dates. Since it is valid for three years, frequent visitors to Spain can apply once and use the same authorisation for multiple trips.
When will it be fully implemented?
Although ETIAS was initially planned for earlier implementation, the system is now expected to be fully operational by mid-2025. The delay has been attributed to the technical and administrative complexities of integrating the system across 27 EU member states.
It will not only affect Spain but all Schengen Area countries, which includes popular tourist destinations such as France, Italy, Germany, and Greece. As such, travellers planning multi-country trips in Europe will need to ensure they have an approved ETIAS before setting off.
How will it affect travel to Ibiza?
For most travellers, ETIAS will simply be an extra step in the travel process. With a cost of just €7 and an application time of 10 minutes, it is unlikely to pose significant inconvenience. However, it’s essential that travellers are aware of the new requirement and apply ahead of time to avoid last-minute complications.
Some critics argue that the new system could cause confusion for infrequent travellers, particularly those who have never needed a visa or travel authorisation before. Airports may also experience delays if passengers are denied boarding due to a missing ETIAS.
Nevertheless, the European Union insists that the document is a necessary step to enhance border security and protect European citizens. Similar systems in the United States (ESTA) and Canada (eTA) have been in place for years, so the ETIAS is seen as a natural progression for European travel security.
ETIAS key takeaways
- ETIAS is a new travel authorisation required for visitors from visa-exempt countries to enter Spain and other Schengen Area countries from 2025.
- The application process is simple, takes about 10 minutes, and costs €7 for most applicants.
- It is valid for three years or until your passport expires, allowing multiple entries.
- Nationals from over 60 countries (including the UK, USA, and Australia) will need to apply for ETIAS.
- Failure to obtain ETIAS could result in denied boarding, so travellers are urged to apply well in advance of their trip.
The introduction of ETIAS represents a significant change in how travellers enter Spain and the wider Schengen Area. While the cost is minimal and the process is relatively simple, the key to a stress-free experience lies in being prepared. Travellers should ensure they understand the requirements and apply for their ETIAS well in advance of their trip.
With ETIAS valid for three years and multiple entries, frequent visitors to Spain will only need to complete the process once every few years. This new security measure, while perhaps seen as an inconvenience by some, ultimately aims to create a safer and more efficient travel experience for all.
By keeping the details of ETIAS in mind and applying early, you can avoid unnecessary travel disruptions and enjoy your trip to Spain without any last-minute stress.
