EU Considers Raising Entry Fees for Tourists from 61 Countries

The European Union is reportedly weighing the introduction of increased entry fees for travelers from 61 non-EU countries, in a bid to help repay a €350 billion recovery loan issued in 2021 to counter the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The move, detailed in a report by Politico Europe, could have wide-reaching implications for millions of visitors, particularly British tourists.

According to an internal memo seen by Politico, the rotating Polish presidency of the EU Council noted there is a possibility of a gradual increase in fees, which could enhance long-term revenue generation.

This potential rise in costs comes on the heels of plans to implement the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) starting in the final quarter of 2026.

ETIAS will apply to visitors from 61 visa-exempt countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan. Under current plans, travelers will be required to pay a €7 fee for entry authorization valid for three years.

However, in light of inflation since the €7 fee was established in 2018, the European Commission has confirmed it is reviewing a possible fee adjustment. A spokesperson told Politico that a revision is under consideration to reflect the changing economic climate.

If introduced, the updated fees would be a significant burden for British travelers, already facing lengthier passport checks and post-Brexit entry requirements into the Schengen Area.

Any increase could also strain the recently improving relationship between London and Brussels, which has seen steps toward easing border formalities for UK nationals.

Although the entry fee hike is projected to generate less than €1 billion per year—a small fraction of the EU's projected €25 to €30 billion in annual debt repayments beginning in 2028—it remains a symbolic measure demonstrating the bloc’s efforts to seek alternative revenue streams.

In addition to the tourist fee increase, EU officials are also exploring a €6 import charge on small parcels shipped by Chinese e-commerce giants such as Shein and Temu. This proposal has received backing from EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič, according to another internal Commission document.