In years past, Americans visiting Europe, especially those countries in what is known as the Schengen Treaty countries, which comprises 22 countries/micro states, could enter Europe, visit these countries and stay for 90 days without any sort of visa.
However, beginning in 2021, American citizens, along with 59 other nationalities will be required to have a an EU to enter the EU Schengen zone countries.
However, the EU has delayed implementing this new entry requirement but I believe that it will be required sometime in 2025 but who really knows until they make it official. I am on a notification list for any updates regarding this ETIAS entry approval, which is not a visa.
This new online visa system is called ETIAS and is similar to the ETAS online visa system being used in the United States.
This new authorization will be valid for a period of 3 years, however, the 90 days stay rule is still the same but according to the information to date, the ETIAS visa allows for multiple entries but thus far there is no mention of how long a person must be out of the Schengen countries before being able to return under the multiple entry policy of the visa.
Click here for the "Official" web portal for the visa application and more information.
Travel Safe, Travel Happy