From the end of 2026, Ukrainians (as well as citizens of other visa-free countries) will need to take one additional step before traveling to the EU: apply for an electronic ETIAS travel authorization and pay the fee online. This does not cancel visa-free travel, but it adds an administrative screening process and a mandatory payment before the trip.
Below is a simple and practical explanation: what ETIAS is, who it affects, how much it costs, how long it is valid, what risks arise from mistakes in the application, and how to prepare to avoid disrupting your trip.
We will advise whether you need ETIAS, how to properly plan your trip (90/180 rule), and what to do if you live in Poland or have another status in the EU.
What Is ETIAS — and What It Is Not
ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization for citizens of countries that can enter the EU visa-free for short stays. Its logic is similar to the U.S. ESTA: first a short online form, then an automated screening, and only after that — travel.
ETIAS is not a visa and does not grant the right to work or reside long-term. It is designed for short trips (tourism, business meetings, private visits). Even with ETIAS, the final decision on entry remains with the border officer — as it does today.
When Will ETIAS Become Mandatory?
The EU officially states that ETIAS is expected to launch in the last quarter of 2026 (i.e., “end of 2026”), with the exact date to be announced separately.
It is important to understand the broader context: before ETIAS, the EU is introducing the EES (Entry/Exit System) — a new system for recording border crossings and monitoring compliance with the 90/180 rule. Full implementation of EES is planned from April 10, 2026.
How Much Does ETIAS Cost and Who Is Exempt?
The European Commission has confirmed that the ETIAS fee will be €20 (previously €7 was planned).
There are exemptions: persons under 18 and over 70 years old are exempt from the fee.
How Long Is ETIAS Valid and How Long Can You Stay in the EU?
ETIAS will be valid for up to 3 years or until the passport expires (whichever comes first).
Having ETIAS does not change the basic visa-free rule: up to 90 days within any 180-day period. ETIAS is permission to travel, not additional days of stay.
If you renew your passport, the existing authorization will likely remain linked to the previous document, meaning you will need to apply for a new ETIAS (follow the official rules at the time of launch).
How to Apply and What the Process Looks Like
Applications will be submitted online via the official website or mobile application. You will need to provide passport details, contact information, and answer standard security/travel questions. In most cases, applications will be processed automatically within minutes, but some may require additional review.
Practical advice: any mistake in passport data (letter, number, date) may disrupt your trip. Therefore, apply in advance — not while traveling.
Risks and “Pitfalls” of ETIAS
ETIAS is being introduced to strengthen pre-travel screening and make border control more systematic. Existing risks will simply become more digitalized:
- Errors in the application form — the most common cause of problems.
- Misunderstanding the 90/180 rule — with EES, automated tracking will make violations easier to detect.
- Assuming ETIAS guarantees entry — it does not; border control remains in place.
- Unreliable “processing services” — risk of overpayment and personal data misuse.
How Ukrainians Living in Poland Should Prepare
If you reside in Poland on the basis of a residence card, visa, or other permit, your travel logic may differ from standard short-term visa-free travel. In such cases, it is important to clearly understand:
- whether you are traveling as a Polish resident (with a residence document) or as a visa-free visitor;
- how days are counted in other EU countries if you hold Polish residence status;
- whether additional documents are required for specific purposes (study, work, long-term contracts, etc.).
The VisaV.pl team specializes in Poland: we assist with legalization, business setup, accounting, and documentation — and advise how to structure your travel plans safely when regulations change.
We will explain how ETIAS works, how to comply with the 90/180 rule, and what to do if you live/work in Poland and want to maintain stable legal status.
