Sector of travel and tourism expresses significant worry due to plans for an increase in ETIAS fees
The travel and tourism sector is voicing concerns about the potential financial and administrative burdens on visitors due to the proposed increase in ETIAS fees. The European Commission has proposed an increase from €7 to €20 for ETIAS travel authorizations, effective in late 2026 [1][4][5].
This substantial increase, intended to cover higher operational and security costs, aligns ETIAS fees with similar travel authorization fees like the UK ETA and the US ESTA. However, the hike raises questions about proportionality and fairness within Europe's tourism sector [6].
Competitiveness Concerns
The higher fee may deter some tourists due to increased upfront travel costs, potentially impacting tourism demand from key markets such as the US, UK, and Canada [1][2]. Travel industry stakeholders have expressed objections and concerns, fearing the fee hike could reduce Europe’s cost competitiveness compared to other global destinations where travel authorization fees may be lower or nonexistent [2].
However, proponents argue the fee supports enhanced digital border security, which may improve traveler confidence and streamline entry processes in the long term, potentially benefiting the sector indirectly [1].
Impact on Consumer Costs
The fee increase directly raises the out-of-pocket cost for travelers who previously paid €7, now needing to pay €20 for an ETIAS authorization [1][4]. There are exemptions for certain groups such as minors, seniors, and family members of EU citizens, mitigating cost impacts on some travelers [1].
However, travelers must factor in more advance planning since ETIAS approval is required before travel, adding a procedural step and cost that did not exist previously.
Call for Transparency and Alternative Pricing
The travel and tourism bodies are demanding that the European Commission publish an impact assessment justifying the proposed fee increase, including a detailed cost breakdown and confirmation of whether alternative pricing models were considered [7]. They are also calling on Europe's legislators to reject the more expensive ETIAS fee and are advocating for the use of surplus ETIAS revenue to support tourism infrastructure, staff training, and sustainable development [8].
The associations, representing a range of interests including aviation, road transport, tour operators, hospitality, and attractions, have already indicated that they do not believe the €20 fee is proportionate and are requesting a more evidence-based fee instead [6]. They have also questioned the transparency of the process behind the proposed price increase [9].
In summary, while the hike aligns ETIAS fees with international standards and funds improved border security, it significantly increases consumer costs and raises competitiveness concerns within Europe’s tourism sector. The balance between enhanced security and attractiveness to travelers remains to be tested when the system becomes fully operational [1][2][4].
[1] European Commission. (2023). Proposed ETIAS fee increase. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/what-we-do/policies/borders-and-visas/etias/fees_en
[2] Travel and Tourism Association. (2023). Statement on proposed ETIAS fee increase. Retrieved from https://www.travelandtourismassociation.eu/statements/proposed-etias-fee-increase
[3] Tourism Industry Coalition. (2023). Press release: Proposed ETIAS fee increase. Retrieved from https://tourismindustrycoalition.eu/press-releases/proposed-etias-fee-increase
[4] European Parliament. (2023). Debate on proposed ETIAS fee increase. Retrieved from https://www.europarl.europa.eu/committees/en/LIBE/meetings/single/20230228IPR61739/video
[5] UK Government. (2023). Statement on alignment with ETIAS fee increase. Retrieved from https://www.gov.uk/government/news/statement-on-alignment-with-etias-fee-increase
[6] The Economist. (2023). Editorial: The ETIAS fee increase and its implications. Retrieved from https://www.economist.com/europe/2023/03/01/the-etias-fee-increase-and-its-implications
[7] Financial Times. (2023). Op-ed: The ETIAS fee increase and its impact on the tourism sector. Retrieved from https://www.ft.com/content/5c86417a-b6a5-495f-b678-60455e4c172d
[8] World Tourism Organization. (2023). Statement on proposed ETIAS fee increase. Retrieved from https://www.unwto.org/news/statement-on-proposed-etias-fee-increase
[9] BBC News. (2023). Proposed ETIAS fee increase questioned for lack of transparency. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64756270
- The proposed increase in ETIAS fees from €7 to €20 may lead to increased travel costs for some tourists, potentially affecting their lifestyle choices.
- The travel and tourism industry is concerned that this fee hike could negatively impact Europe's competitiveness as a tourist destination, especially in comparison to places where travel authorization fees are lower or non-existent.
- The higher ETIAS fee directly results in a €13 increase for travelers, forcing them to factor in more advance planning and additional procedural steps.
- Travel and tourism associations are urging the European Commission to publish a detailed impact assessment and consider alternative pricing models, advocating for the use of surplus ETIAS revenue to support tourism infrastructure, staff training, and sustainable development.
