From the end of 2026, entry into the EU will become subject to a fee for Ukrainians: what will change with ETIAS and how to prepare

From the end of 2026, Ukrainians will have to pay for entry into EU countries through the ETIAS system. Find out how much the permit costs, how to apply for it, who does not need to pay, and what risks to consider before traveling

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From the end of 2026, the rules for Ukrainians traveling to European Union countries will change. To enter without a visa, you will need to apply for an ETIAS electronic permit in advance and pay a mandatory fee online. The new system does not abolish the visa-free regime, but adds a financial and administrative component to each trip.

Official European sources have announced the launch of ETIAS: the system will become mandatory for citizens of all countries that are eligible for visa-free short-term travel to the EU, including Ukraine.

Paid entry to the EU: what exactly will change for Ukrainians

Starting at the end of 2026, Ukrainians will have to obtain ETIAS electronic authorization before traveling to the European Union. Without this permit, it will be impossible to cross the border, even with a biometric passport.

The key point is that payment is mandatory. The application will only be considered after the funds have been credited.

How much does ETIAS cost

The officially confirmed cost of submitting an application is €20 per person.

Important:

● Permits are issued separately for each traveler.

● It is not possible to submit a single application for a family or group.

● The fee is non-refundable, even in the event of refusal or errors in the data.

Permit validity and travel geography

The ETIAS will be valid:

● for up to 3 years, or

● until the expiry date of the foreign passport, whichever comes first.

During this time, the authorization will allow multiple trips to 30 European countries, including: Schengen countries, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Romania.

Important: if you get a new passport, you will have to reapply for ETIAS — the old authorization will automatically become invalid.

How long can you stay in the EU with ETIAS

A valid ETIAS authorization entitles you to:

● stay up to 90 days during any 180-day period;

● make an unlimited number of short-term trips within this rule;

● separate accounting for stays in Cyprus (it is not part of the Schengen area).

ETIAS does not grant the right to work or long-term residence — it is exclusively a tool for tourist, business, or private short trips.

Reminder: for those planning to travel to the EU by car, it is important to remember that ETIAS does not replace the mandatory car documents. In particular, a Green Card — an international civil liability insurance policy — is required to cross the border. It can be obtained online at Visit Ukraine in advance to avoid delays and problems at the border.

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What ETIAS is and what it is not

ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization, not a visa. It:

● does not guarantee automatic entry into the EU;

● does not eliminate border control;

● only confirms that the traveler has passed a preliminary check.

The final decision on whether to grant or deny entry is still made by the border authorities.

How to apply for ETIAS

Applications can only be submitted online:

● via the official ETIAS website;

● or via the ETIAS mobile app.

Payment is made by bank card. No other methods (cash, bank transfer) are accepted.

What information must be provided

When completing the application form, the applicant must provide:

● personal and contact details;

● information from a valid biometric passport;

● information about education and current professional activities;

● details of the planned trip;

● answers to the mandatory ETIAS declarations.

Any error (e.g., an incorrect letter in the name or passport number) may result in the cancellation of the authorization without a refund.

Application processing times and risks

In most cases, applications are processed within a few minutes. However, additional checks are possible:

● up to 4 days — standard additional check;

● up to 14 days — if additional information is requested;

● up to 30 days — if an interview is necessary.

That is why it is recommended to submit your application in advance, rather than on the eve of your departure.

Who does not need to pay for ETIAS

The following are exempt from paying the fee:

● persons under 18 years of age;

● persons over 70 years of age;

● family members of European Union citizens.

For all other categories, payment is mandatory.

We remind you! Ukraine is updating its rules on working hours and breaks for drivers in line with EU standards. Read about which new requirements will come into force in 2026, who will be subject to them, and what will change for international transport.

Photo: travel-europe.europa.eu

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