Please be aware that travel authorization is not yet required as the ETIAS system has not yet gone live.

• What is ETIAS?
• When will it come into effect?
• Who requires ETIAS travel authorisation?
• How and When to Apply?
• Documents needed to Apply?
• Application Fee?
• How soon will I receive ETIAS?

What is ETIAS?

European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is the new process that will be required by non-EU/non Schengen country citizens travelling to Gran Canaria and any other EU member state. It will be similar to the U.S. ESTA and Canada’s eTA entry visa process. An approved ETIAS will be required by all non-EU citizens at border control to allow entry into the EU. It is designed to reduce security threats within the EU by screening travellers prior to their arrival to Europe.

When will it come into effect?

It is expected the ETIAS requirement will com into force some time during the second quarter of 2025.

Who requires ETIAS travel authorisation?

Visa-exempt non-EU citizens visiting Gran Canaria and other Schengen countries for 90 days or less will be subject to ETIAS. This will include over 30 countries including Canada, United States, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Travellers under the age of 18 must additionally apply for ETIAS, which must be completed by a person with parental responsibility. However, there is no application fees for applicants under the age of 18.

How and When to Apply?

You can apply using the official ETIAS website or mobile app. It is recommended that you do this before you book your flights or accommodation, at least four weeks prior to your intended departure date.

Documents needed to Apply?

You will need a valid passport or an authorised travel document accepted by ETIAS. Also the online form will ask for:

• Name(s), Surname, Nationality, Home address, Date of Birth, Place of Birth, Parents’ first names, Email address, and Phone number.
• Details about your education and current occupation/employment.
• Details regarding any criminal convictions, previous journeys to war or conflict zones, and whether you have recently been ordered to leave any country.
• Details of your expected journey and stay in any of the countries that require ETIAS.
  

Application Fee?

The processing fee for ETIAS is €7 and is noon refundable. The ETIAS is then valid for 3 years or whenever your passport expires, whichever comes sooner.

How soon will I receive ETIAS?

The application will be screened against various databases and most applications will have approval within a few minutes. Initially you will receive an email with your unique ETIAS application number and then another email informing you of the outcome of your application. At this point it is very important to check everything is correct, as if there are any mistakes you will likely be refused entry.
If the application has been rejected, the email will issue the reasons for the refusal and how you can appeal.

For additional information on ETIAS, also see the European Union ETIAS FAQ page.

Please visit our page Entry/Exit System to find out how long you can remain in Gran Canaria without a visa.