The Etias system, launching for UK travellers in late 2025, requires an online application and a fee of €7 for access to 30 Schengen states. Mandatory for visa-exempt citizens, it allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period while enhancing travel security. Children under 18 and seniors over 70 are exempt from the fee. Concurrently, the UK will implement the ETA system for certain foreign visitors from late 2025.
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias) will be implemented as a travel approval requirement for UK travellers. Like the US Esta, it aims to vet visitors for security purposes. Travellers must pay a fee of €7 (£6) for access to 30 European countries, with this authorization valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Applications can be submitted online or via a mobile app; responses are typically quick but may take up to 30 days in certain cases. Children under 18 and individuals over 70 will be exempt from the fee but still need to apply. The Etias is set to begin six months following the launch of the Entry/Exit System (EES), which is anticipated for late 2025.
The Etias is mandatory for citizens of about 60 visa-exempt countries, including the UK, who plan to visit the Schengen states for short stays. Countries within the Schengen area include Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, among others, while Cyprus will also require Etias approval as it joins the Schengen zone.
Though the Etias functions as a travel waiver not fully classified as a visa, it simplifies the travel process by streamlining application procedures. To apply, travellers must submit personal details, identification information, and declarations regarding criminal records or recent travel to conflict zones, which will be checked against EU databases.
While the Etias allows for travel within Schengen area nations, it does not permit stays exceeding 90 days within any 180-day period. Passport checks may still occur, as countries operate under an open-border policy. The Etias process, similar to the US Esta, requires valid passport documentation, with applications yielding quick results in most cases, although some may take longer to process.
For UK visitors, the Etias costs €7 for those aged 18-70, with exemptions for others. Valid for up to three years, this authorization can be revoked anytime. Travellers are urged to apply for their Etias before booking travel. Additionally, scams may arise in anticipation of the Etias, so always refer to the official EU website for accurate information.
Meanwhile, the UK is implementing a separate Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) program for visitors from certain countries, including Canada and the US, scheduled to roll out to eligible Europeans from April 2025. ETAs will need to be obtained before travelling to the UK and will last for two years, supporting various travel purposes within the UK while ensuring a streamlined entry process.
Overall, understanding the Etias and ETA systems helps UK travellers prepare for future European travel, ensuring they meet the necessary entry requirements without unnecessary delays or complications.
Original Source: www.thetimes.com
