Italy

What changed

The European Union (EU) is bringing in the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). This is a new electronic travel authorisation. People from countries that do not need a visa can use it to travel to 30 European countries for short visits. ETIAS is expected to start in the last three months of 2026. The EU has confirmed the time frame for this. However, the official EU website says that the exact start date is not yet announced. Once ETIAS starts, people who do not need a visa will generally need an approved ETIAS before they travel. The authorisation is connected to the traveler's passport. It lets people stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. ETIAS is not a visa. It does not give someone the right to work, study, or live in Europe. There will be a six-month transitional period when ETIAS starts. After that, there will be a six-month grace period. During the transitional period, travellers can enter without ETIAS if they meet the other entry rules. During the grace period, ETIAS is generally needed. However, travellers entering for the first time during this period may be allowed in without ETIAS if they meet the other entry rules.