From next year, Brits will have to obtain a new visa to enter many popular destinations in Europe.

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will require UK citizens to apply for travel authorisation before entering the Schengen Area among others.

Though not as complex as a traditional visa, it does require travellers to submit an online application before their trip. Once approved, an ETIAS will be valid for three years or until the traveller’s passport expires.

The system is being introduced in the hope it will enhance security, track entry and exit data, and reduce illegal immigration.

There are many places within four hours of the UK that will not require an ETIAS. These include:

• Albania

• Algeria

• Belarus

• Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Egypt

• Georgia

• Ireland

• Kosovo

• Moldova

• Montenegro

• Morocco

• North Macedonia

• Russia

• Serbia

• Tunisia

• Turkey

• Ukraine

The ETIAS application will cost £6 and will require the applicant to provide personal details and answer security questions. There will be no fee for children or the elderly.

The system applies to travellers to Europe from countries including the UK, Georgia, Ukraine, Moldova, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Albania.

And the requirement will apply to 30 countries in the Schengen Area including Belgium, Greece, Liechtenstein, Malta, Spain and more.