Europe’s New Travel Costs: Understanding ETIAS and City Taxes
Traveling to Europe is about to undergo a financial shift. From 2024, the introduction of the ETIAS visa waiver program and various city taxes will change the cost dynamics for tourists. This guide sheds light on these new charges and what travelers should anticipate.
The ETIAS Visa Waiver: What Is It?
The ETIAS, priced at $7.70, isn’t a traditional visa. Instead, it’s a pre-registration system for visitors from countries that don’t need visas for Europe. Modeled after the US’s ESTA program, it aims to streamline entry into EU countries.
Who Needs ETIAS?
Citizens from around 60 non-EU countries, including the US, UK, Japan, Singapore, and the UAE, will require ETIAS. However, those already needing a visa for the EU will continue to do so.
How Does ETIAS Work?
Similar to the US’s ESTA, travelers must apply online before their trip. Costing 7 euros ($7.70), it covers multiple entries for three years or until the passport expires. Most applications get processed within 96 hours, but some might take longer.
The Rise of Tourist Taxes in Europe
Many European cities now impose a “tourist tax” on overnight visitors. These taxes support public services like trash collection and street cleaning. The amount varies based on the city and the duration of the stay.
UK’s Approach to Tourist Tax
Manchester introduced a £1 ($1.30) tax on overnight stays in 2023. Edinburgh and Wales are also considering similar levies.
Cruise Passengers and Landing Taxes
Some European cities charge cruise passengers an arrival tax. For instance, Barcelona charges 4.75 euros for stays longer than 12 hours. Amsterdam has an 8 euro fee for day-visiting cruise passengers.
Variability in Tourist Taxes
The amount of tax varies based on the city and the type of accommodation. For instance, Rome charges between 4 to 7 euros per night based on the hotel’s star rating. In Venice, the tax ranges from 1 to 5 euros per person per night.
Venice’s Unique Entry Fee
Venice plans to introduce an “entrance fee” in 2024, charging day-trippers between 3 to 10 euros. This fee aims to manage the overwhelming number of visitors the city receives daily.
In a nutshell, the introduction of the ETIAS visa waiver and various city taxes signifies Europe’s effort to manage its tourist influx and ensure sustainable tourism. Travelers planning European trips from 2024 onwards should factor in these costs and stay informed about the evolving travel landscape.
