Starting next year, travelers planning to visit Europe will face some changes in their entry process. The European Commission will implement the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) for travelers from various visa-exempt countries, including the United States. The ETIAS will require a fee and an online application before traveling.
Here’s what you need to know about ETIAS:
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Effective Date:
The ETIAS fee is expected to go into effect in 2024. Initially planned for 2021, it was postponed to November 2023 and then further delayed to the beginning of 2024.
Cost:
When ETIAS is operational, travelers between 18 and 70 years old will need to pay €7 ($7.70) for the authorization. The authorization will remain valid for three years or until the expiration of the traveler’s passport.
Applicable Countries:
ETIAS will be required for entry into 30 European countries, which include popular destinations like France, Germany, Iceland, Spain, Greece, the Netherlands, and more.
Who Pays:
Travelers between 18 and 70 years old are required to pay the fee, but family members of EU citizens are exempt from this requirement.
Application Process:
Travelers can apply for ETIAS through an official website or app before their trip. Each person must apply individually since the authorization is linked to their travel document. However, applicants can authorize others to apply on their behalf. Most applications will be processed within minutes, while some may take up to 96 hours, and in some cases, up to 30 more days if additional information or documentation is required.
Required Information:
To apply, travelers will need to provide personal details such as name, address, passport information, and occupation. They must also disclose any travel history to “conflict zones” and any criminal convictions. Additionally, travelers will need to outline their travel plans within Europe. However, health or vaccination status and biometric data like fingerprints will not be required.
Denial and Appeals:
Travelers may be denied an authorization for various reasons, such as posing a security risk, being associated with illegal immigration, or representing a high epidemic risk. If denied, applicants will receive notification with the reason. They have the right to appeal the decision, and future applications will not be automatically refused due to a previous denial.
United Kingdom and U.S. Travelers:
ETIAS will not apply to travel to the United Kingdom as it is no longer part of the European Union. However, the UK plans to implement its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, requiring all non-visa foreign visitors, including U.S. citizens, to apply online in advance of their visit.
Similar System in the U.S.:
The U.S. has a similar system called the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Travelers from countries in the Visa Waiver Program, including the United Kingdom, must apply for ESTA before visiting the U.S. The fee for ESTA increased from $14 to $21 in the previous year.
By staying informed and prepared, travelers can navigate the new ETIAS requirements and enjoy their European adventures with ease.
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