SchengenClock
Verified June 2026

ETIAS for children and families

Yes, children need ETIAS - but it is free under 18

Every traveller needs their own authorisation, linked to their own passport. For children under 18, the application costs nothing.

One passport, one ETIAS - at every age

ETIAS is tied to a passport, not to a household. That means each child, including an infant with their own passport, needs a separate ETIAS. There is no combined family application. A parent, guardian or other adult can complete and submit each child’s form for them.

The fee structure is the only thing that changes with age: applicants under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the €20 fee, while everyone in between pays it. The paperwork is identical - only the charge differs. See the full breakdown on ETIAS cost.

A practical family checklist

  • • A valid passport for every family member, including children.
  • • A separate ETIAS application per person, each linked to that person’s passport.
  • • One adult can apply on behalf of children and other dependants.
  • • Budget €20 per adult (18–70); €0 for under-18s and over-70s.

Full document list on the ETIAS requirements page.

Travelling as a family still means everyone shares the same 90/180 day limit individually. Check each traveller’s days with the 90/180 calculator.

Frequently asked questions

Do children need ETIAS?

Yes. Every traveller, regardless of age, needs their own ETIAS linked to their own passport - including babies and children. The difference is cost: it is free for anyone under 18.

Is ETIAS free for children?

Yes. Applicants under 18 pay no fee. The €20 charge applies only to travellers aged 18 to 70. The application itself is still required - free does not mean skipped.

Can a parent apply for their child's ETIAS?

Yes. A parent, guardian or another adult can submit the application on a child’s behalf. Each child still needs a separate application tied to that child’s own valid passport.

Does each family member need a separate ETIAS?

Yes - there is no single “family” ETIAS. A family of four needs four authorisations, each linked to one passport. Adults pay €20 each; children under 18 are free. See ETIAS cost.

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