The ETIAS online application process is simple and consists of a few key steps. This step-by-step guide will help you avoid common mistakes and successfully obtain your travel authorization.

Step 1: Register on the Official Website

Very important: Apply exclusively on the official EU website: travel-europe.europa.eu or through the official mobile app.^[10] Beware of fraudulent intermediary sites that may charge extra fees or steal your data.

1. Go to travel-europe.europa.eu.
2. Create an account using your current email address.
3. Confirm your account creation via the email you will receive.

Step 2: Fill in Personal and Passport Information

At this stage, you will need your biometric passport. Enter the data carefully, exactly as it appears in your document. Read more about document requirements and exemptions.

• Last and first name: Enter in Latin letters, as in your passport.
• Date and place of birth, sex, citizenship.
• Passport data: Number, country of issue, dates of issue and expiry.
• Contact details: Your current address, email and phone number.
• First country of entry: Indicate the Schengen country you plan to enter first.

Step 3: Answer the Security Questions

You will need to answer a series of questions honestly about your travel history, possible criminal record and health status. Provide only truthful information, as it will be checked against EU and Interpol databases.

Step 4: Pay the 20 Euro Fee Online

After filling out the form, the system will redirect you to the payment page.

• Cost: 20 euros.^{[5], [10]}
• Payment method: Secure online payment by credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard).
• Fee exemption: Please note that persons under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the fee.^[9]

Step 5: Track Your Application Status and Receive a Decision

After successful payment, your application will be processed.

• Receiving a decision: The decision to approve or reject will be sent to your email. In most cases, this takes a few minutes, but it can take longer if additional verification is required.^[10] In case of rejection, you will be informed about the appeal procedure.^{[10], [4]}
• Application status: You can check the status of your application in your personal account on travel-europe.europa.eu.
• Approved authorization: An approved ETIAS authorization is automatically linked to your passport and is valid for 3 years (or until your passport expires).^[10] It allows you to stay in the EU for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.^[10] It is not necessary to print it out, but it is recommended to keep an electronic copy.