What ETIAS is
It's an electronic travel authorisation (not a visa) that visa-exempt travellers will request online before their trip. It will cost around €20 and be valid for several years or until the passport expires.
When does it start?
As of October 2026 there is no confirmed date. The EU dropped the late-2026 target and a 2027 launch is expected, announced several months in advance. Meanwhile, the EES biometric border registration system is already running.
Does it affect me if I move to Italy?
ETIAS covers short stays (up to 90 days in any 180). To live, study or work in Italy you need the relevant national visa and then a residence permit. EU and Italian citizens don't need ETIAS.
Frequently asked questions
Does ETIAS replace a work or student visa?
No. It's only for tourism and short trips.
Do I need ETIAS if I have an Italian passport?
No, EU citizens don't need it.
Published: 23 October 2026. This guide is general information and does not replace a lawyer's advice on your specific case. Italian immigration rules change often.