The process of the European Travel Information and Authorization System, also known as ETIAS, is anticipated to be implemented to increase the security of the Schengen borders. This will be done by prescreening the travellers who do not require a Visa to Schengen countries, especially from the United Kingdom. The idea was initially proposed by the European Commission in the year of 2016, and it is expected to be implemented by the end of 2025.
Main Highlights of ETIAS
Though ETIAS hasn’t been implemented, it is good to get acquainted with the procedure beforehand:
Application Process: The travellers will have to fill a form online at the official website before commencing the journey. You will have to provide your personal information, details of the travel, and answer the rest of the security-related questions.
Fee and Validity: As per the recent information, you will be required to pay around €7 if your age is between 18 and 70. Once the authorities approve your ETIAS, it will be valid for three years or the expiration of your passport, whichever comes first.
Scope of Travel: After you get your ETIAS approved, citizens of the UK and BRP holders who are exempted from Schengen visas can travel to any of the Schengen countries for a maximum of 90 days within any 180 day period.
After Brexit happened, the European Union has classified UK citizens as third country nationals. While UK citizens are normally allowed to visit the Schengen countries without any Visa, with the introduction of ETIAS will create an additional security measure before any kind of travel.
One thing which should be clear in everyone’s mind is that ETIAS is not to be considered as a VISA, it is more of a system put in place for travel authorization. The system is not new, it has been used by other countries as well, such as U.S.
Application Procedure for ETIAS
Follow this process after ETIAS is officially online:
Online Submission: All the applicants will have to fill out an online form. Provide your personal details such as your name, date of birth, passport-related information and details about your travel.
Security Questions: The applicants will have to give information related to their health, past criminal records and travel history if done in the conflict zones.
Processing Time: It is expected that the application will be processed very quickly. It might take a few minutes to get the approval. However, there could be instances where the approval can take a longer time. This is why it is recommended to apply quite in advance before the applicant plans to depart.
There is some good news for people travelling from UK
Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for three more months after you depart from the Schengen Area.
Multiple Entries: Getting an approved ETIAS will allow you to go for multiple entries into any Schengen country. Just remember that each stay should not exceed 90 days within the 180 day period.
Travel Plans: ETIAS can let you travel for tourism and business purposes, but in case you are planning to work or study in the Schengen countries for a long time, then you will have to go for an additional visa or permit.
Final Thoughts
Thus, in final words, the step to indore ETIAS is taken to enhance and manage the border security of Schengen countries. For UK travellers, the process is very straightforward. Though most of the important aspect of ETIAS is covered here, stay informed from the official webpage for any further developments.
