The Next Step in Travel to Portugal and Europe: ETIAS - The Electronic Authorization that Will Come After the End of the Stamp

Patrícia Rosas
5 hours ago
3 min read

The world of travel is constantly evolving, and Europe, including Portugal, is modernizing its border management to ensure a safer and more efficient experience. If you read our previous article on the Entry/Exit System (EES) - the one that says "goodbye to the stamp and hello to biometrics" - you already know that the way your entries and exits from the Schengen Area are registered has changed.

Now, it's time to present the next logical and crucial step in this transformation: the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System), the European Travel Information and Authorization System.

ETIAS: What Is It and Why Will It Be Necessary?

ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization that will be required of citizens of more than 60 countries who are currently exempt from visa to enter the Schengen Area - which includes Brazilian citizens for short stays (up to 90 days in a period of 180 days).

It is important to emphasize: ETIAS is not a visa! It is a security pre-selection system similar to what already exists in the United States (ESTA) or Canada (ETA). It serves to verify whether the traveler represents any security risk, illegal migration or public health even before embarking for Europe.

The Main Differences and Complementarity between EES and ETIAS

EES and ETIAS work together:

ETIAS (Before the Trip): The traveler requests ETIAS online. The system checks security databases. If approved, the authorization is
EES (On Arrival): Upon arrival in Portugal or another country in the Schengen Area, the border agent verifies the validity of his ETIAS and registers his entry into the EES through biometric data, starting the 90-day count.
Enhanced Security: ETIAS will use the data recorded in the EES to increase security, automatically checking the traveler's history.

How to Apply for ETIAS and How Long Does It Last?

The ETIAS request is fully online and must be made through the official website (which will be made available by the European Union). The process is fast and requires the completion of a form with personal data, passport, training, occupation, and some safety and health issues.

Validity: The ETIAS is expected to be valid for three years or until the expiration date of the passport used in the application, whichever comes first.
Period of Stay: With a valid ETIAS, it is allowed to stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days in a period of 180 days.
Cost: There will be a single application fee, defined by the European Union.
Processing Time: In most cases, approval is expected in minutes. However, if the process requires manual analysis, it may take longer (the general recommendation is to request at least 72 hours before the trip).

Portugal in the Digital Age of Travel

With the EES and the arrival of ETIAS, Portugal reinforces its commitment to security and modernisation. The ultimate goal is to make your travel experience more fluid and protected, allowing border agents to focus on cases that really require attention.

Important Notice and Official Websites

It is essential to be aware of the proliferation of unofficial sites that charge excessive fees or that are not legitimate. The ETIAS system is not yet fully operational.

For official information and the exact date of entry into force (which has been continuously postponed, with the latest forecast for the last quarter of 2026), always look for the sources of the European Union.