UK citizens don't need a visa to visit the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180. Today a valid passport is enough; once ETIAS starts, you'll need to apply online before you travel (€20, valid 3 years). The UK and Ireland have their own separate rules.
What you need today
- A British passport valid at least 3 months after you leave Europe and issued within the last 10 years.
- Watch older UK passports: what counts is the issue date (less than 10 years) as well as 3 months' validity after you leave.
- Proof of accommodation, a return ticket and enough funds for the country you visit (for example €122.10 a day in Spain).
- EES registration (fingerprints and photo) on your first entry.
What changes with ETIAS
Before each trip you'll need a valid ETIAS. It takes about 10 minutes online, costs €20 (free under 18 and over 70) and lasts 3 years or until your passport expires. Renew your passport and you'll need a new ETIAS.
Fill in the form
Passport details, contact info, education, job and a few security questions.
Pay €20
Online. Free if you're under 18 or over 70.
Get it by email
Usually within minutes; at most 96 hours unless they ask for more info.
Off you go!
It's linked to your passport for 3 years. At the border you're registered in the EES.
Good to know for UK citizens
- Withdrawal Agreement beneficiaries with an EU residence document are exempt from ETIAS (except those with residence in Ireland or Cyprus for travel elsewhere).
- The 90/180 rule counts all Schengen countries together: second-home owners in Spain or France should keep track with the calculator.
- The EES is live: expect fingerprints and a photo at Dover, Eurotunnel and St Pancras juxtaposed controls and at EU airports.
- Ireland doesn't use ETIAS and Brits need nothing for it.
Entry requirements for top destinations
Frequently asked questions
Do UK citizens need a visa for Europe?
No, not for short stays of up to 90 days in any 180 in the Schengen Area.
When will UK citizens need ETIAS?
Once ETIAS starts; there's no official date yet. Start date tracker.
Do I need ETIAS for Ireland?
No. Ireland doesn't use ETIAS, and British citizens can travel there freely under the Common Travel Area.
Keep reading
Sources
- European Commission: official list of nationalities that will need ETIAS
- European Commission: ETIAS FAQ
- European Commission: UK nationals and ETIAS
This guide is independent and for information only. Rules can change: before you travel, always double-check on the official ETIAS website and with the authorities of the country you're visiting.