"ETIAS: Europe's Essential Travel Authorization Program Explained"

The European Union's new travel authorization system, ETIAS, will require travelers from many countries, including the US, to apply for authorization before visiting European destinations. The authorization, valid for three years, is aimed at tracking authorized visitors and preventing security risks, irregular migration, and public health threats. ETIAS is not a visa but a database that checks applicants against EU information systems. The application process is expected to be quick and cost 7 euros. While 95% of applications are estimated to be approved, final entry decisions will still be made by border guards.