EU Will Require US Visitors To Apply For Visa-like Travel Pass

Americans traveling to Europe will soon have to add a new item to their packing lists.

Starting in 2021, the European Union will require US visitors to get a pre-approved, visa-like travel pass issued by the European Travel Information and Authorization System.

The permit will cost about $7.90 and will have to be requested at least four days before the journey—making romantic last-minute jaunts to Paris impossible.

But permission will be good for three years and for multiple trips in and out of the Schengen Zone, which covers 26 countries.

Under current rules, Americans can travel in Europe without a visa for up to 90 days.

The new requirement will serve as a security check, EU officials said Friday.