ETIAS vs Schengen Visa
ETIAS is a travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals. A Schengen visa is required for nationals who are not visa-exempt.
For whom
- ETIAS
- Visa-exempt nationals
- Schengen Visa
- Visa-required nationals
Fee
- ETIAS
- €7
- Schengen Visa
- €80+
Processing time
- ETIAS
- Minutes to 30 days
- Schengen Visa
- 15 to 45 days
Validity
- ETIAS
- 3 years
- Schengen Visa
- Trip-specific
Application
- ETIAS
- Online, 10 minutes
- Schengen Visa
- Embassy/consulate in person
Documents needed
- ETIAS
- Passport only
- Schengen Visa
- Passport, photos, itinerary, proof of funds, insurance
Interview required
- ETIAS
- No
- Schengen Visa
- Sometimes
| Feature | ETIAS | Schengen Visa |
|---|---|---|
| For whom | Visa-exempt nationals | Visa-required nationals |
| Fee | €7 | €80+ |
| Processing time | Minutes to 30 days | 15 to 45 days |
| Validity | 3 years | Trip-specific |
| Application | Online, 10 minutes | Embassy/consulate in person |
| Documents needed | Passport only | Passport, photos, itinerary, proof of funds, insurance |
| Interview required | No | Sometimes |
Summary
ETIAS is significantly simpler and cheaper than a Schengen visa. If your country is visa-exempt, you need ETIAS — not a visa.
Other Comparisons