ETIAS launch could be postponed until 2027

The launch of the European Travel Authorization System (ETIAS) could be delayed once again. According to reports in the Financial Times, the European Union is preparing to postpone the launch of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) from late 2026 to 2027. ETIAS is often compared to the U.S. ESTA system and is intended to apply to visa-exempt travelers who wish to enter one of 30 European countries for short stays.

Officially, nothing has changed regarding the timeline so far: neither the European Commission nor the responsible EU agency, eu-LISA, nor the Council of the European Union has confirmed a postponement. The official information pages still state that ETIAS is scheduled to go live in the fourth quarter of 2026. However, information reported by the British newspaper suggests that this timeline is currently under considerable pressure.

Possible Delay Following Problems with the EES

Discussions about a possible ETIAS delay apparently follow difficulties with the EU’s Entry/Exit System, known as the EES. This system was phased in starting October 12, 2025, and has been fully operational since April 10, 2026. It replaces the manual stamping of passports with digital recording of entries and exits by visa-exempt short-term travelers from non-EU countries and also collects biometric data such as facial images and fingerprints.

The introduction of the EES has led to long lines at several border crossings, particularly at some airports and heavily trafficked land borders. The aviation industry has been warning for weeks about potential disruptions during the peak summer travel season. According to three people familiar with the matter cited by the Financial Times, eu-LISA—the European agency responsible for the technical implementation of the EES and ETIAS—has acknowledged that an ETIAS launch before the end of the year is no longer realistic. The agency’s Management Board is said to have discussed a postponement in mid-June, and further discussion on a revised timeline is expected in September.

A spokesperson for eu-LISA confirmed to the Financial Times that the Management Board had discussed the launch of ETIAS on June 17, 2026, but added that there have been no further developments on this issue since then.

Official Timeline Still Set for Late 2026

Officially, nothing has changed regarding the timeline. The relevant EU portal still states that ETIAS is scheduled to begin operations in the fourth quarter of 2026. The European Commission also confirms that the system is not yet operational and that no applications for entry authorization are currently being accepted.

For travelers, this uncertainty means one thing above all: it’s worth closely monitoring developments and planning ahead as soon as ETIAS actually launches. If, in the meantime, you need a regular visa to enter the Schengen countries or other countries, we’d be happy to assist you with the application process. As soon as ETIAS officially launches, we’ll also handle the application for this electronic travel authorization on your behalf—effortlessly and without you having to navigate official portals and forms yourself. Simply use our application form to prepare for your trip in a timely manner.