How the New ETIAS Travel Permit Will Affect Your Travel in Europe
- Alaina Khan
- Sep 11, 2023
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 12, 2023
Commencing in 2024, ETIAS travel authorization will become mandatory to enter most European countries for approximately 1.4 billion individuals from over 60 countries that currently enjoy visa-exempt status.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS, which stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, is a forthcoming security and fee-based system for travellers intending to visit EU member nations for various purposes, such as business, tourism, medical treatment, or transit. Currently where visa-free travellers can enter EU and Schengen Member countries without undergoing digital security screening or incurring additional costs, the implementation of ETIAS will introduce a more rigorous security process for these visitors. It is important to note that ETIAS should not be mistaken for a traditional visa; instead, it is more accurately described as a visa-waiver program.
What countries require it?
As of now, 30 European countries will require visa-exempt travellers to have an ETIAS travel authorisation.
How long can you stay in the EU under ETIAS?
ETIAS is designed for short-term visits, allowing travellers to stay in European countries implementing ETIAS for a duration of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is essential to possess a valid ETIAS travel authorization for the entire duration of your stay. You have the flexibility to depart and return as long as you adhere to this time limit.
The validity of your ETIAS travel authorization extends for three years or until your travel document, used in the application, expires, whichever comes first. If you obtain a new passport, you must apply for a new ETIAS travel authorization. However, it is crucial to understand that possessing an ETIAS does not guarantee entry. Upon arrival, a border guard will inspect your passport and other documents to verify that you meet the entry requirements.
How much does an ETIAS application cost?
The application fee for an ETIAS travel authorization is EUR 7. However, certain travellers are eligible for a fee exemption. Applicants who are either under 18 years old or over 70 years old are not required to pay this fee. Additionally, exemptions also apply to family members of EU citizens or non-EU nationals who possess the right to move freely within the European Union.
How can I apply for ETIAS?
You have the option to complete the ETIAS application form through either the official ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile application. When filling out the application, ensure you have your travel document and a payment card readily available. Additionally, you will be required to provide your personal information.
Travel Document: For your application, a valid travel document eligible for visa affixation is mandatory. This travel document should have an expiration date of at least three months from the intended date of your departure and should not be more than ten years old. Travel documents that do not meet international standards may face rejection during the application process and could lead to complications when carriers verify your travel authorization before boarding.
Personal information: When completing the application, you will need to provide the following personal details:
Personal information including your full name, date and place of birth, nationality, residential address, parents’ first names, email address and phone number;
Travel document details;
Details about your level of education and current occupation;
Details about your intended travel and stay in any of the countries requiring ETIAS;
Details about any criminal convictions, any past travels to war or conflict zones, and whether you have recently been subject of a decision requiring you to leave the territory of any country.
You will also need to declare the accuracy of the data you submit and affirm your understanding of the entry conditions for European countries enforcing ETIAS and that you may be asked to provide the necessary supporting documents each time you cross an external border.
In the event that someone is submitting the application on your behalf, that individual must provide their full name, the name and contact details of their organisation or firm (if applicable), as well as details regarding their relationship with you, along with confirmation that both parties have signed the declaration of representation.
How long will the application take to process?
The majority of applications are typically processed within a few minutes. However, it is possible for the process to take longer. In such cases, you can expect to receive a decision within four days. This processing period may be extended by up to 14 days if additional information or documentation is requested, or up to 30 days if you are invited for an interview. Therefore, it is advisable to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization well in advance of your intended travel date. Upon submitting your application, you will receive an email confirming its receipt, which will include a unique ETIAS application number that is essential to retain for future reference.
Once your application has been processed, you will receive another email notifying you of the outcome. It is crucial to carefully review the details on your ETIAS travel authorization, including your name, passport number, and other information, to ensure accuracy. Any errors in this information could prevent you from crossing the border.
Mistakes and Refusals
In case you discover an error in your application after it has been submitted, there are a couple of options to address it. The quickest and most convenient approach is to initiate a new ETIAS travel authorization application, using the information from your previous application while making the necessary corrections. This is also the preferred method if you need to make substantial changes, such as modifying your email address, correcting nationality information, or updating your passport number or name. For minor errors like typographical mistakes, you can also request a correction. However, please be aware that processing your correction request may take up to 30 days.
If your application is refused, you will receive an email outlining the reasons for the decision. This email will also provide guidance on the appeal process, including information about the relevant authority and the associated time limit for filing an appeal.
Nationals of the United Kingdom
UK citizens must possess a valid ETIAS travel authorization when travelling to European nations that mandate ETIAS for short-term stays, allowing for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If UK nationals intend to stay for an extended period, they must adhere to the entry criteria established by national or EU migration regulations, which may involve obtaining a visa or a residence permit.
However, there is an exemption for UK nationals and their family members who are beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement. They are not required to obtain ETIAS authorization. Instead, they are permitted to reside within the territory of their EU host country and travel to other European countries that demand ETIAS, provided they possess documentation verifying their status.
Successfully apply with OneLaw Chambers
At OneLaw Chambers, our Immigration Solicitors and Barristers regularly assist with Immigration and Visa applications for applicants. We have assisted many foreign nationals to prepare and submit successful Immigration and Visa applications and we have represented clients from all over the world. We are well equipped to prepare and submit your ETIAS application.
We are committed to ensuring that our Immigration Solicitors and Barristers prepare every immigration visa application with utmost quality and skill so that a successful outcome is achieved every time. Our Immigration Solicitors and Barristers operate in a friendly and cooperative manner to provide our clients with the best client care and service during the entire immigration application process.
