WHAT:
The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) today(May 20, 2026) released a new member-exclusive Industry Brief examining the European Travel Information and Authorization System, or ETIAS, the new digital travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers visiting most European countries.
The brief provides ASTA members with timely guidance on how ETIAS will work, who it applies to and what travel advisors need to know as the requirement prepares to take effect later this year. It also places ETIAS in the broader context of global travel authorization systems, as governments increasingly adopt digital processes to screen travelers before arrival.
ASTA’s analysis is designed to help travel advisors prepare clients for a changing international travel environment, including how new authorization requirements may affect client education, trip planning, documentation workflows and traveler confidence.
In conjunction with the Industry Brief, ASTA also hosted a member webinar on ETIAS and what travel advisors need to know before the new requirement takes effect. ASTA members can watch the webinar recording on-demand through ASTA TV.
WHY IT MATTERS:
As governments around the world adopt new digital entry and travel authorization systems, travel advisors are increasingly responsible for helping clients understand requirements before they travel. ASTA’s Industry Brief gives members practical context on ETIAS and related global travel authorization programs, helping advisors prepare clients, reduce confusion and reinforce the value of professional travel guidance.
QUOTE FROM ZANE KERBY, ASTA PRESIDENT AND CEO:
“Travel requirements are becoming more digital, more complex and more important to understand before a client ever leaves home. ETIAS is one of the most significant examples of this shift, and travel advisors have a critical role to play in helping travelers navigate these changes with confidence. This Industry Brief and our member webinar give advisors the timely information they need to prepare their clients and demonstrate the value of expert travel guidance.”
ACCESS:
The Industry Brief is now available to ASTA members. Members must log in to access the full brief at ASTA’s Industry Affairs resources page.
ASTA members can also watch the ETIAS webinar recording on-demand through ASTA TV.
MEDIA ONLY LINK: Media are welcome to access the whole Industry Brief here for their reporting purposes and background. Please do not share this document directly in your reporting, rather link to the Industry Resources section of ASTA’s website.
NOT AN ASTA MEMBER? JOIN TODAY:
Access this Industry Brief, the ETIAS webinar recording and other member-exclusive research, advocacy updates and business resources by joining ASTA. Become part of the national association working to protect and promote the travel advisor profession.
Tags: ETIAS American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) ZANE KERBY
