ETIAS Explained: What UK Roadies Need to Know Before Touring Europe
If you’ve toured Europe before, you’ve likely heard whispers about something called ETIAS.
It’s not a visa, it’s not a tax, but it is a new step in the process of getting into Europe—and it’s coming for UK travellers soon. For roadies, crew, and anyone who works across borders, it’s important to know what this change actually means for your travel plans, your budget, and your paperwork.
But the information out there can be vague, or overly complicated. So this blog keeps it simple:
What is ETIAS?
Why it’s being introduced?
How is it going to affect you when you’re on the move for work?
If you’re wondering whether you’ll need to apply, what you’ll pay, or what happens if you don’t, read on — we’ve broken down the key questions with clear answers.
Why is ETIAS being implemented?
The ETIAS system is being introduced by the EU in an effort to strengthen border security, reduce illegal entry, and manage public health risks more effectively. Authorities claim it will help flag potential risks by screening travellers in advance through databases like SIS, Europol, and Interpol. The idea is that this early check will ease pressure at border crossings and allow for smoother entry for the majority of visitors.
For more info:
What exactly is ETIAS, and when does it start?
ETIAS is a new online system the EU is bringing in for people who currently don’t need a visa to enter - like UK roadies. Once it’s live, you’ll need to apply online before your trip to get pre-authorisation to enter Europe.
This is happening because, post-Brexit, UK travellers are now treated as non-EU visitors. The EU wants to screen arrivals in advance for security and public health reasons.
It’ll cost €7 (free if you’re under 18 or over 70) and will be valid for 3 years. If you don’t apply, you won’t be allowed in.
It’s expected to launch in late 2026.
For more info:
Why could you be denied ETIAS authorisation?
You might be refused ETIAS approval if:
You have a criminal record involving serious offences (e.g. terrorism, drug trafficking, human trafficking, or other major crimes).
You’re flagged on security databases such as the Schengen Information System (SIS) or Interpol.
You’ve overstayed visas or broken immigration rules in the past within the EU or Schengen area.
You’re considered a public health risk, such as if there’s evidence you’ve recently been exposed to certain diseases.
You submit incorrect or inconsistent information in your application, or it doesn't match passport records.
That said, most applicants are expected to be approved quickly—often within minutes. But if you’re denied, you will be told why and how to appeal.
For more info:
Do I need ETIAS or a work visa for EU gigs now?
ETIAS and work visas are two very different things—and it’s important to understand which applies to your situation.
If you're a UK national touring in the EU under the 90 days in any 180-day period rule, you do not need a visa, but you will need to apply for ETIAS once it’s live. ETIAS is not a visa—it’s a pre-travel screening system, similar to the U.S. ESTA, that checks your eligibility to enter the Schengen area without a visa.
On the other hand, if your tour exceeds the 90 days window, or you’re doing certain types of paid work that some countries classify as requiring formal authorisation, then you may need to apply for a short-term work permit or national visa. In that case, you won’t need ETIAS, as it only applies to visa-exempt travellers.
For more info:
How does ETIAS differ from the EES system?
ETIAS and EES are two separate but connected systems the EU is introducing to better manage and monitor non-EU visitors—like UK nationals—travelling into the Schengen area. They serve different purposes and happen at different stages of your journey.
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is a pre-travel authorisation. It’s an online form you must fill out before you head to Europe. The goal is to carry out security, immigration, and health checks in advance—essentially to vet visitors before they arrive. If approved, you’ll be allowed to travel to the EU, but it doesn’t guarantee entry.
EES (Entry/Exit System), on the other hand, kicks in at the border. It replaces passport stamps by logging when you enter and leave the Schengen zone. This system scans your passport, takes your photo, and in some cases, collects biometric data like fingerprints. EES will be the system that officially tracks your 90-in-180 days.
So, in short:
ETIAS = pre-authorisation to travel
EES = digital tracking of your actual entry and exit
You’ll need to go through both once they’re fully active—ETIAS before your trip, and EES when you arrive at the border. EES is expected to launch in late 2025, with ETIAS following in 2026.
Do I need ETIAS if I’m working abroad but paid by a UK company?
Yes—wherever you're based doesn’t matter. If you're doing gigs in Europe and stay under 90 days, you need ETIAS no matter who pays you. It’s about travel, not payment source.
Does working over 90 days on tour trigger visa requirements?
Yes. ETIAS covers short-term visits only. For tours exceeding 90 days, or gigs needing separate work visas, you'll likely need national long-stay/work visas. Don’t assume ETIAS is enough.
What are the penalties if I enter without ETIAS?
Travel carriers (airlines, coaches, etc.) must check ETIAS before departure. Without a valid authorisation, you can be denied boarding. Border control may refuse entry. Fake ETIAS sites are already causing trouble.
How long does ETIAS take and how much does it cost?
Expect to pay about €7 (free if under 18 or over 70) and allow at least 96 hours (4 days) before traveling. Most approvals are instant, but some may take up to 30 days.
Is there a grace or transitional period?
Yes. After ETIAS launches, there will be 6 months grace period before it's mandatory. Another 6 months grace for first-time travellers after system starts. Still, applying early is smart.
Are there any exemptions from ETIAS?
Yes—UK nationals with EU residency under the Withdrawal Agreement, EU/EFTA nationals, diplomatic passport holders, cruise crew on transit, etc., are exempt.
