If you are a frequent visitor to Austria and your country is on Austria’s visa free list, the process of entering Austria is about to change. The new Austria ETIAS visa waiver is about to be launched for visitors from visa-exempt countries, so it is best to garner as much information as possible and prepare for the change about to unfold.
Austria ETIAS Explained
Austria is one of the 27 Schengen countries, and any visitor coming into the country requires a Schengen visa unless they are from other Schengen countries or visa free countries. Before now, visitors from visa free countries only needed to show their passports at the airport or border posts to enter Austria, but the introduction of ETIAS is about to change all that.
Although visa-free visitors will still be able to enter Austria and other Schengen countries without a visa, they must complete an ETIAS authorization before they can enter the country.
The European Travel Information and Authorization System is a new system set to launch in November 2023. This visa waiver program was agreed upon and introduced by the Schengen countries to improve the region's security. So non-EU countries coming to Schengen must pass through ETIAS vetting to be allowed into Austria or the Schengen region.
This Is Not A Visa
ETIAS is not a visa but an electronic travel permit that allows the various EU government to maintain strict security and surveillance around the clock by tracking everyone who comes into the region from visa-free countries. The system simply screens visitors before they leave their respective countries quickly. Since the process is done online, it saves embassies and consulates the pain of screening applicants themselves.
Traveling To Austria
If you have any plans to visit Austria with an ETIAS, you should prepare yourself for a culture shock, especially if you are not from a Western or European country. Austria is a German-speaking country in Central Europe and is a member of the Schengen Region and the European Union. The Austrian economy is very strong, and its citizens enjoy one of the highest standards of living in Europe. Aside from being one of the world's richest and most stable countries, it also boasts a rich history dating back several centuries, including the reign of the Hapsburg Empire.
Austria is home to unique baroque architecture Influenced by the Renaissance age and beautiful landscapes, mountains, hill, and valleys that attracts millions of visitors every year. The cities are also highly developed, including the capital, Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. Austria is also well known for its mark on music, art, and culture, which best explains why several centers and museums are dedicated to art. It was home to legendary artists like Strauss and Fraud, including the great Mozart, who was born in Salzburg.
What Is Required For Austria ETIAS?
For this authorization, you will need to provide your personal information and answer some questions.
The requirements are a collection of your passport and other information. Have a look at them.
Passport – Passport Number – Issue & Expiry Date – Nationality – Education & Work Experience – Medical History – Passport Issue and Expiry Date – Previous Visits To War Zones (If Any) – Criminal Record – Deportation or Visa Rejection
These are the documents for ETIAS, and all applicants are expected to provide them. In the case of minors, their parents must fill out and sign the form on their behalf.
ETIAS Information Requirements
When filling out the form, which takes only about 10 minutes, you will need to provide your details like your first and surname, biometric information, date of birth, place of birth, gender, Citizenship, current address, Email address, phone number, education, and work experience.
How To Apply For Austria ETIAS?
The application is done online and will be available to all applicants in VisaHQ. Here are the steps to take
Log onto VisaHQ
Select your Destination
Select your citizenship
Choose ETIAS
Fill out the form
Pay the app fee
Submit for approval
The process is relatively fast, and the authorization will be sent to your email. If there is a hitch, the system will for your information to manual processing, which may take up to 2 weeks to address.
Austria ETIAS Application Fee
The application fee for ETIAS is €7 for adults 18 years and above, but minors under 18 will not pay this fee.
So when making travel ahead of the November 2023 launch of the ETIAS, don’t forget that your passport will no longer be enough to secure entry into Austria or any Schengen country for that matter. You will need to get Austria ETIAS approval before leaving your country for Austria. Also, note that this authorization is recognized by all countries in the Schengen zone.