There are TWO new rules to follow when traveling to Europe from the US. One has already been implemented, called EES. The other will be activated by the time il Gruppo is travelling in November. To make it super confusing, they both start with the letter “E”, so it is easy to mix them up.
EES (already activated)
EES stands for Entry/Exit System. This is for all non EU citizens visiting the EU for the first time since the system was activated. Upon your first entry into the EU, passport control officers will take a photo of your face and scan your fingerprints. This may also be done at a kiosk without an officer present at some airports. There is an app for this as well that you can do before traveling, but Italy does not yet have the app. Check to see if other countries you may be traveling through have it. Eventually, it is hoped that they will all have it, but that is not the current status (as of May, 2026). If you have already used this system to travel in Europe, you may need to repeat it until the system is running more smoothly. This process will replace having your passport stamped. It is the hope that this will speed up crossing into and out of the EU.
My own experience with this process has been that the machine used to scan fingerprints cannot read mine. This will probably be improved over time. For now, if the machine cannot read your fingerprints, they just wave you through. Sometimes it helps to apply some pressure when doing the scan.
Now, for the OTHER new process for traveling to the EU.
ETIAS: European Travel Information and Authorisation System
As of May, 2026, this is not activated yet but is estimated to start the last quarter of 2026, so by the time you all are traveling to Italy for the reunion, it will likely be in place. This system has been in the works since about 2019 and has had numerous ‘proposed’ start times, only to be delayed again and again. So this information is given assuming that this time it will happen as planned.
All non EU citizens (even visa exempt ones like the US) will need to apply. ETIAS is a travel authorization you MUST apply for PRIOR to travel via plane, train, bus or cruise. It is similar to the ESTA used by the US. Once you have it, it is good for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you will need to get a new ETIAS travel authorization. Once you have the authorization, you can enter 30 EU countries (Schengen zone) as often as you want for short stays, in most cases for 90 day stays in any 180 day period, just like before. It does not guarantee entry. You will still be questioned by a border patrol officer to be sure you meet the criteria for entry.
You can apply for the ETIAS online using either the official ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile app (not yet available as of May 2026). You will need a valid passport, email address and credit or debit card to pay the 20 Euro fee. The application should be fairly painless and not take more than 15 minutes to complete. You will need to answer questions about your health conditions, travel history, reason for travel and criminal background.
Most ETIAS applications are processed within minutes. But some could take up to 30 days if additional checks are required so it is a good idea to apply a month or so before your trip.
The ETIAS is linked to your travel documents (passport) so be sure to carry the same document with you when you travel.
Happy travels! See you all there!
