New €20 Travel Permit for Ukrainians: EU’s ETIAS System Set to Launch in 2026.

What Ukrainians Need to Know About ETIAS

According to Novyny.live: Starting in 2026, the European Union will introduce the ETIAS system, requiring Ukrainians to obtain a travel authorization before crossing EU borders. The fee for this permit is set at €20. The maximum stay in the Schengen Area will remain unchanged—up to 90 days within any 180-day period. However, time spent in Cyprus will not count toward this 90-day limit, as it is treated separately under the rules.

Once approved, the ETIAS authorization will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. It is important to note that as of June 2026, the online registration portal for ETIAS will no longer accept new applications. Additionally, Ukrainians holding a residence card under Directive 2004/38/EC are exempt from the ETIAS requirement.

Updated Travel Rules for Entering the EU

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is scheduled to go live in the final quarter of 2026, according to the official EU portal. With these changes on the horizon, Ukrainian travelers must familiarize themselves with the new entry requirements to avoid delays or confusion at border crossings.

The primary goal of ETIAS is to enhance security within the European Union by pre-screening individuals planning to enter member states. For Ukrainians, this means additional administrative steps that require careful attention and advance planning, especially regarding application deadlines. The vast majority of Ukrainian citizens intending to visit the EU should stay informed about these updated rules to prevent potential complications at the border.