What's Happening?
European travel and tourism associations, including HOTREC, have expressed significant concern over the European Commission's proposal to increase the ETIAS travel authorization fee from €7 to €20 per application. ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorization System, is set to become operational in late 2026, requiring visa-exempt non-EU travelers to obtain online authorization before entering the Schengen Area. The proposed fee increase, nearly triple the original amount agreed upon in 2018, has raised concerns about its proportionality and transparency. Industry leaders are urging the European Parliament and the Council to reject the proposal and demand evidence-based justification. They suggest that any surplus revenue should be reinvested into strengthening the tourism ecosystem.
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Why It's Important?
The travel and tourism sector is a vital component of Europe's economy, supporting millions of jobs and generating significant export revenue. The proposed ETIAS fee increase could deter international travelers, impacting the hospitality industry and related sectors. The fee hike may also affect Europe's competitiveness as a travel destination, potentially leading to reduced visitor numbers and economic losses. Industry leaders argue that the fee increase should be carefully evaluated to avoid unnecessary burdens on travelers and the tourism industry, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that supports secure borders without compromising economic growth.
What's Next?
The European Parliament and the Council are expected to review the proposal, with industry leaders advocating for a more proportionate fee structure. They are calling for an impact assessment from the European Commission to justify the proposed fee and explore alternative pricing models. The outcome of this review could influence future tourism policies and the allocation of ETIAS revenue towards tourism infrastructure, staff training, and sustainability initiatives. Stakeholders in the travel and tourism sector will likely continue to lobby for changes to the proposal to ensure a fair and sustainable approach.
