Updating Your ETIAS: What to Do If There’s an Error in Your Application
Have you submitted your ETIAS application and realized afterward that some information is incorrect? The procedure depends on the stage of processing your application is in and the nature of the error. Some corrections can be made before the final decision is issued, while others require a completely new application. One thing is certain: it’s always better to correct an error than to leave inaccurate information as is—the data is verified against international databases, and any inconsistency can lead to complications at the border.
Types of Errors and Procedures Depending on the Situation
| Error Type | Request stage | Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| Minor typo (first name, date of birth) | Application currently being processed | Contact the ETIAS Central Unit via the official portal to request a correction |
| Incorrect passport number | Application currently being processed | Critical correction—contact the ETIAS Central Unit immediately |
| Invalid email address | Request being processed | Correct via the portal—if you cannot correct it, you may not receive the confirmation |
| Error in security questions | Application is being processed | Contact the ETIAS Central Unit — providing false information may result in a refusal or revocation |
| Authorization already granted with a minor error | ETIAS approved | Contact information can be updated — for identity or passport information, a new application may be required |
| Incorrect passport number in a granted authorization | ETIAS approved | The authorization is linked to the wrong passport—a new application is required with the correct number |
How to Contact the ETIAS Authorities to Request a Correction
The official ETIAS portal will feature a dedicated section where applicants can check the status of their application and submit requests for corrections or clarifications. To make any corrections, you will need your ETIAS application reference number and your passport number.
If you have a complex question or an urgent matter before an upcoming trip, you can contact the ETIAS National Unit of the Schengen country you plan to visit first. Each Member State has a national unit responsible for reviewing complex cases and responding to applicants. The contact information for the national units will be available on the official ETIAS website once the system is launched.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
| Common Mistake | Impact | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Passport number copied incorrectly | Authorization linked to an incorrect document — possible refusal at the border | Check each number and letter while holding the passport open—the number appears on the data page and at the bottom of the page in MRZ format |
| Incorrect passport expiration date | Inconsistency detected during verification — extended processing time | Check the date on the passport’s data page, not on the cover |
| Incomplete or abbreviated first name | Discrepancy with passport information — further verification may be required | Enter the exact first name(s) as they appear on the passport, without abbreviations |
| Undeclared dual citizenship | Incomplete information — may trigger a verification | Declare all nationalities you hold, even if you are traveling with only one passport |
| Email address with a typo | Did not receive confirmation or a decision | Double-check the email address before submitting—check your inbox for the confirmation after submission |
| Incorrect answers to security questions | False statement — grounds for revocation if discovered | Answer honestly — if you are unsure about a question, consult our ETIAS form questions page |
What happens if you travel with an ETIAS that contains an error?
If the error is minor and does not affect the traveler’s identification (such as a spelling mistake that does not affect pronunciation), border officials can generally resolve the issue on the spot after verification. However, if the error involves the passport number or name, the airline may deny boarding because its system will not find a match between your passport and the associated ETIAS.
Don’t take the risk of traveling with a known error. If you discover an inconsistency before a trip, contact the ETIAS authorities or submit a new, corrected application—even if that means paying the €20 fee again. The cost of being denied boarding or turned away at the border is much higher.
Can I change the destination listed on the form?
The ETIAS form asks you to indicate your first intended Schengen country of destination. If you change your destination after obtaining your authorization, no changes are necessary —the ETIAS is valid for all 30 Schengen countries, regardless of which country you indicated on your application. The first country of destination is used to determine which national unit will process applications requiring manual review, but it does not restrict your travel to that country for subsequent trips.
Frequently Asked Questions About the ETIAS Amendment
I received my ETIAS, but I realize I forgot to declare my nationality—what should I do?
Contact the ETIAS Central Unit through the official portal to report the omission. The ETIAS Regulation requires you to declare all nationalities you hold. An omission may be considered a false declaration if it is discovered during checks. Depending on the situation, an update or a new application may be necessary.
I selected the wrong country as my first destination—do I need to resubmit my application?
No. The ETIAS is valid in all Schengen countries, regardless of which country is listed as your first destination. You can change your itinerary freely without having to take any action. The first country listed is for administrative purposes only.
My request has been in process for several days—can I make changes to it?
Applications currently undergoing manual review (14 to 30 days) may be subject to a request for additional information from the authorities. If you wish to correct any information during this period, contact the ETIAS Central Unit via the official portal using your reference number. Visit our page on ETIAS processing times to understand the different stages of the process.
Do I have to pay again if I need to resubmit an application due to an error?
Yes. If the error requires you to submit a new application—for example, an incorrect passport number that renders the authorization invalid—the €20 fee applies again. The fee for the first application is non-refundable. This is another reason to carefully check all information before submitting the form. See our ETIAS payment page for details.
