Anderson Travel and Tours

ETIAS

Graphic from the SchengenVisaInfo.com website

The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (yes Europeans spell it “authorisation,” so it’s not a typo) will basically be a visa-waiver program similar to the current Electronic System for Travel Authorization required for European visitors entering the U.S.

This program has been in the works for a long time, but they keep delaying the rollout. Right now, they are saying it will go into effect in May 2025, but there is no firm date yet. Don’t be surprised if the date gets pushed again. Once it’s implemented, don’t worry. It will not be anything difficult. Many countries and islands charge a fee similar to this and track visitors for safety with e a similar process. It’s just taking Europe longer to implement their program.

Americans will need to apply for the ETIAS and pay a fee (approx. $8.00) to visit Europe. The form will preauthorize visitors from the United States (and other countries outside of the Schengen Area) to enter the region for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a full visa. The ETIAS will be good for 3 years.

The Schengen Area is the world’s largest free travel area. It’s the EU passport-free zone covering 27 European countries.

NOTE: Only visitors between the ages of 18 and 70 will pay the $8.00 application fee.
All ages will be required to complete the ETIAS authorization form.

According to the SchengenVisaInfo website, the EU’s goal of making travel more secure has been a priority due to security concerns with terrorism and the migrant crisis. ETIAS is a solution to lessen wait times, reduce procedures and increase security.

Visitor information will be checked against government watchlists and databases before an authorization to enter is approved. Collected information from visitors may also be used for data tracking purposes relating to tourism and business. If your application is flagged based on the cross-checks, it could take from four days to two weeks for approval. Most applications should only take minutes to complete and approximately an hour to get approved.

Once the ETIAS is officially live, you will complete an online form. Based on the Schengen website here’s what you will need to complete on the ETIAS form:

  • Biometric information such as:
    • First name
    • Last name
    • Last name at birth
    • Date of birth
    • Place of birth
  • Information regarding your citizenship
  • Address
  • Email and phone number
  • Education and work experience
  • First EU country you intend to visit
  • Background and eligibility questions will inquire about your medical condition, travel to war countries or places where you were deported or rejected, as well as criminal records
  • For minors, the legal guardian must apply for ETIAS
  • For family members of EU citizens from other countries, you must submit proof of relationship, residence card, and other background information

Once an official date is posted regarding when ETIAS will be required, we will send out an update!