EU Plans Surprise Fee Hike for Tourists Before ETIAS Launch in 2026

The European Union’s long-anticipated European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) hasn’t launched yet, but its modest €7 fee may already be on the chopping block. With post-pandemic debt looming, Brussels is reportedly considering raising the price before the system even goes live.

Originally set to take effect at the end of 2026, ETIAS will be required for travellers from visa-exempt countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and Australia who plan to visit the Schengen Area.

The digital travel authorisation is modelled after the U.S. ESTA and U.K. ETA, and will be valid for three years of unlimited short stays across 30 European countries.

But now, some EU diplomats are quietly suggesting a price bump, citing economic pressures.

Why the EU May Raise ETIAS Fees

At the heart of the discussion is a staggering €350 billion debt the EU accrued during the COVID-19 recovery effort. To repay that sum, officials are hunting for politically safe revenue streams, and ETIAS is firmly in their sights.

Although no official proposal has been made, a review of the €7 fee set back in 2018 is gaining momentum. According to a report by POLITICO, EU leaders are considering adjusting the price to account for inflation, system development costs, and potential long-term revenue gains.

The idea may surface officially during the July 16, 2025, EU budget announcement.

Compared to Other Systems, ETIAS Is a Bargain

For context, the ETIAS fee is significantly cheaper than its international counterparts:

An internal memo from Poland’s presidency of the EU Council suggests that a “gradual increase” would still keep ETIAS affordable while helping the bloc boost revenues in a non-disruptive way.

How Much Could ETIAS Bring In?

Even at €7 per application, ETIAS is expected to generate more than €200 million annually. However, that’s only a fraction of the €25–30 billion per year the EU must begin repaying by 2028.

So, while the income from ETIAS may be small in the grand scheme, the symbolic move, targeting foreign travellers rather than EU citizens, could be politically advantageous.

Brussels is also reportedly considering a €2 tax on online packages from fast-fashion platforms like Shein and Temu as part of its broader revenue strategy.

What Is ETIAS and Who Needs It?

Once operational, ETIAS will be a mandatory requirement for travellers from over 60 visa-exempt countries. The digital pre-screening system is designed to enhance border security and streamline entry into the Schengen Area.

Here’s a quick overview:

• Launch Date: End of 2026
• Fee: €7 (may increase)
• Validity: 3 years
• Eligible travellers: Citizens of visa-free countries, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, Japan
• Purpose: Pre-screen travellers for security risks and ease border management
• Coverage: 30 Schengen Area countries

Before ETIAS goes live, the Entry-Exit System (EES), an automated system that tracks arrivals and departures, is expected to roll out starting October 2025.

Will Travellers Push Back?

With the fee still relatively low compared to other systems, the EU may bet on travellers accepting the increase quietly. But if the change happens too soon or without sufficient transparency, it could spark backlash over bureaucracy and added travel costs.

For now, there’s no official confirmation of a price hike. But travellers planning trips to Europe in late 2026 or beyond should keep an eye on ETIAS updates, as any fee increase will directly impact the cost of travel.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning to explore Europe in the near future, now is a good time to familiarise yourself with ETIAS, especially since its launch and pricing could shift. While €7 sounds like a steal, don’t be surprised if that figure creeps higher before the system goes live.

As always, stay informed and check official EU sources or your country’s travel advisory websites closer to your travel date.