ETIAS system – when it comes into effect, how often you have to pay for travel to the EU, how long it takes to get a permit.
UPD: The EU has postponed the introduction of the ETIAS system to the end of 2026 (and this may not be final yet)
The system will be introduced with a transitional period of about six months, meaning registration will not immediately become mandatory: a full launch should be expected only by 2027.
The system for monitoring visa-free citizens arriving in the EU (ETIAS) is planned to be launched at the end of 2023. Initially, ETIAS was planned to be launched in 2022, but its introduction has now been postponed to 2026.
What is the ETIAS system?
ETIAS stands for “European Travel Information and Authorization System.” It is an automated electronic system that tracks and authorizes entry to the Schengen zone for those arriving from countries whose citizens do not require a visa to enter the Schengen zone. Work on implementing the ETIAS system began in 2016, and the system is expected to be introduced by the end of 2023.
Within ETIAS, each applicant will undergo a security check to determine whether they can be allowed entry to a country in the Schengen zone. This entry authorization system will collect, track, and update the required information regarding travelers to determine whether their entry into Schengen countries will be safe.
Along with using ETIAS for business and tourism purposes, the system will also allow visits to Schengen countries for treatment and transit. Moreover, it will be mandatory for all European countries for which a Schengen visa is not required for entry.
How long does it take to apply for ETIAS visa waiver?
The process will be largely automated, and filling out the form will take no more than 10 minutes, for which you will need to provide passport data and travel information, as well as answer some basic security questions.
The European Commission (EC) calls the new ETIAS system “simple, fast, and convenient for visitors.” It is projected that a positive response will be provided for more than 95 percent of applications.
A visa waiver will be issued automatically within a few minutes after payment. But travelers are advised to apply at least 72 hours before they need it, in case of any delays.
“Only in very exceptional cases, the ETIAS procedure may last up to 30 days,” the Commission said.
After your application is approved, it is valid for three years and allows for an unlimited number of entries, which is good news for frequent travelers. After three years, the ETIAS visa-free approval process must be repeated for further travels to the EU.
Who is covered by the new visa-free regime with the EU?
The new security measure applies to people who do not reside permanently in an EU country and do not require a visa to stay there.
Tourists, owners of secondary homes, temporary workers, or those visiting family or friends in the 26 countries of the Schengen zone must obtain authorization for this application.
The zone includes most EU countries, as well as Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Ireland and Cyprus are EU countries that will remain outside the ETIAS system.
The new ETIAS permit is compared to the Australian ETA and the American ESTA for residents of countries who can visit them visa-free, used for short-term stays.
Rules for those who require a Schengen visa, including most citizens of Africa, Asia and South America, will remain unchanged.
Why is the EU introducing an American-style previsa-free regime?
The ETIAS system aims to improve security in the EU, eliminate gaps in information about foreign arrivals to the EU.
“Currently, border and law enforcement agencies have little information about travelers crossing EU borders without visas,” the EC said.
The ETIAS system will compare personal data with a number of EU databases, including Europol. This will help identify individuals who may pose a security threat before they enter the Schengen zone border. The system will also help improve detection of human trafficking, especially in the case of minors, and combat cross-border criminal activity.
How and when will ETIAS change travel for non-EU citizens?
The European Commission says this will have “minimal impact” on people traveling to Europe. Eligible travelers will need to obtain ETIAS before traveling at a cost of 20 euros. But it is free for persons under 18 and over 70 years of age. After that, air and sea carriers as well as land border control services will be required to check the status of the travel document before boarding.
Initially planned for the end of 2022 and then for May 2023, ETIAS will enter into force in 2026.
Useful articles and links:
Route schedules and bus tickets– at InfoBus.ua
Green card and Travel medical insurance for traveling abroad – online on the HotlineFinance portal
Hotel and apartment bookings – Booking.com
