Overview

• The European Commission is exploring raising the ETIAS charge above €7 for travelers from 60 visa-free countries when the system launches in late 2026.
• Internal EU estimates suggest the higher fee would yield under €1 billion annually, compared with annual Covid debt repayments of €25–30 billion starting in 2028.
• Germany has opposed the measure, warning it could discourage visitors and slow the tourism sector’s recovery.
• British and American tourists, who already contend with new post-Brexit entry rules, stand to be most affected by the increase.
• Lawmakers will debate the levy alongside other revenue options such as a €2 fee on small parcels before the budget proposal is submitted on July 16.