European Travel Information and Authorization System

Travel Information for UK citizens Travelling to France

Travel to France will change for citizens of the UK, and all other visa-exempt countries, in 2023. The new travel authorisation system, called the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), will be mandatory for all travellers heading to a Schengen country from any visa-exempt country.

STEP 1

Get notified when ETIAS is mandatory

STEP 2

Start ETIAS Application online

STEP 3

Receive ETIAS confirmation

STEP 4

Welcome to Europe

Travelling to France?

France is the most visited country in the world, and it’s no surprise. With its beautiful architecture, rich history, and world-renowned culture, France draws around 89 million visitors annually – that’s more than Spain and the USA, with 82 and 78 million annual visitors, respectively. From the Mediterranean riviera of Nice to the Lyon’s Alpine corners, the Atlantic scenery of Brittany and Normandy, and the winery speckled countrysides of Bordeaux and Loire valley, France has something for every type of tourist. Then, of course, there’s Paris: the most visited city in the European Union – a cultural, financial, and political wonder. France has long been a top destination for British travellers, given the proximity to home. From 2023, British travellers will need to submit an ETIAS application before heading to France.

Be aware that due to the COVID-19 epidemic, the Government of France could impose additional requirements and restrictions that are independent of ETIAS.

Get notified when ETIAS becomes mandatory

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ETIAS Requirements

All applicants using ETIAS to apply for entry to Schengen country will need a valid biometric passport, expiring no sooner than 3 months after the date of arrival. UK passports have a maximum validity duration of 10 years, and the UK has been issuing biometric passports since 2010, so if you have a valid passport, it is most certainly biometric. It’s essential to note that ETIAS approval is linked to the traveller’s passport, and when the passport expires, so does the ETIAS approval. When you apply for a new passport, you’ll need to re-apply for ETIAS approval, too. The online ETIAS application will require about 10 minutes of your time. In most cases, the system will only ask for biometric passport details, some basic personal information, contact information, and history of any travel or legal issues.

ETIAS FAQ

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Will UK citizens need ETIAS?

Yes. UK citizens will need to submit an application through ETIAS when it becomes mandatory in 2023, and after a short grace period, they won’t be permitted entry without ETIAS approval.

Will children travelling to France need ETIAS?

Yes. Before a child travels to France, his or her legal guardian or parents must submit an ETIAS application on behalf of the child. Minors are not exempt from the ETIAS authorisation process.

How to get ETIAS approval to travel to France from the UK?

To travel to France from the UK, you’ll need a valid biometric passport, a valid email address (to receive the decision confirmation), and you’ll need to pay a fee for ETIAS processing.

You’ll also need to disclose your name, address, and other basic personal details, and you’ll need to answer a few questions about your travel history and criminal activity.

The application will take about 10 minutes, and you should receive a decision notification within 24 hours. Occasionally, border officials may flag an application as suspicious, and they may request additional information or a face-to-face interview.

Can I work or study in France with my ETIAS visa waiver?

No. ETIAS approval is not a visa and is not a substitute for the traditional visa process. If you want to work or study in France, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa.