Ukrainians Won't Need ETIAS Until 2027 – Should You Still Pay the €20 Fee?.

ETIAS Launch for Ukrainians Pushed Back

According to Мінфін — Крипто/Фінанси: The rollout of the ETIAS system for Ukrainian travelers may be postponed until 2027 due to complications with implementing the Entry/Exit System (EES). While the ETIAS fee is set at €20, there is currently no requirement to pay for this service. According to the official EU website, ETIAS is designed for citizens from visa-free countries, including Ukrainians holding biometric passports.

How the EES System Plays a Role

The EES, which began its phased implementation on October 12, 2025, is expected to be fully operational by April 10, 2026. It tracks the entry and exit of third-country nationals, and experts believe delays in ETIAS are partly due to EU member states struggling to meet new border requirements. As Magnus Brunner noted,

“part of the delays are specifically linked to how member states have prepared their borders.”

A 2026 launch for ETIAS may be unrealistic, according to the Financial Times. The EU wants to first resolve potential queues caused by the EES, which further complicates the timeline. Crucially, the visa-free regime for Ukrainians remains in place, offering reassurance for travelers.

For now, Ukrainians don’t need to worry about paying the ETIAS fee, but the system’s launch timeline raises many uncertainties. Further decisions on deadlines and conditions are expected in the near future.

The delay in ETIAS could significantly affect Ukrainian travelers planning trips to EU countries. If the system isn’t ready on time, it may impact travel arrangements and entry requirements, though the visa-free policy will stay active, allowing Ukrainians to continue traveling without extra complications. Staying updated on ETIAS launch dates and regulatory changes is essential to prepare for any shifts in Europe’s entry rules.