With the European Travel Information and Authorization System set to launch by November 2023, here are a series of important ETIAS FAQs to provide you with all the information you need to make your application successful.
When Will ETIAS become operational?
ETIAS is set to launch in 2023, but the system will be test run from May, and travelers will be given a window to travel to Europe with or without ETIAS approval. However, come November, the approval will be mandatory for all visitors coming from Visa-exempt countries into the Schengen Area. Travelers without this approval will be sent back to their countries.
Who is Eligible for ETIAS Authorization?
The general criteria for ETIAS approval are that the applicant must be a citizen of a country that is currently on the visa-exempt list of the respective Schengen states. Travelers who can enter Europe without a visa are eligible for ETIAS approval.
Is ETIAS a Visa or Residence Permit?
The European Travel Information and Authorization System Approval is neither a residency permit nor a visa. It is solely for foreign nationals who do not need these documents to visit any European country on a short visit. ETIAS visa waiver is simply an approval to show that the visitor poses no security threat to the country they are planning to visit.
How Long Can I Stay In An European Country With ETIAS?
The law allows ETIAS visitors to visit and stay in any of the European countries besides Ireland for 90 days maximum within 180 days. If you wish to stay for more than 90 days, you must apply for a Schengen visa.
What Can I Use ETIAS For?
You can use the European Travel Information and Authorization to visit Europe as a tourist, visit family and friends, and attend business meetings and social events.
What Documents Will I Need For the ETIAS application?
You will need only a valid passport issued by your home country. The passport must be valid for at least three months, counting from the day you plan to depart the Schengen country. Passports should have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps at the entry and exit points and must not be older than ten years.
How Will ETIAS Work?
The system will be deployed to vet travelers coming to Europe by screening the information they provide on multiple security Databases. If the screening registers a hit, the application may be denied or forwarded to manual processing until further vetting.
How Quickly Will ETIAS Be Approved?
Applicants should expect approval after a few minutes of submitting their application online. The system is fast and secure.
Is There An Application Fee?
The Application Fee for ETIAS is €7, but not all applicants need to pay this fee. People between 18-70 years must pay, but those below 18 and those over 70 are exempted from paying the application fee?
Can Minors And Teenagers Below 18 Years Of Age Apply For ETIAS?
Yes, they can. However, the application form must be filled out, signed, and declared by their parents or guardians.
Will I Be Denied Entry Into Europe Without ETIAS Despite Being A Citizen Of a Visa Exempt Country?
You can still enter Europe without ETIAS, but the deadline ends on October 31st, 2023. Starting from November 2023, you will not be allowed entry without the ETIAS approval.
Can I Still Be Denied Entry Despite Having ETIAS?
Having ETIAS will be an important entry prerequisite, but the immigration officers of the different Schengen States have the full right to decide your suitability. If you don’t meet the entry conditions for the country you visit, you may still be denied entry despite having ETIAS.
How Long Is ETIAS Valid For?
ETIAS is valid for three years, so you don’t have to apply for a new one each time you have travel plans. The approval guarantees multiple entries.
How Many Countries Can I Visit With ETIAS Approval?
You can visit all the countries in Europe with the exception of the Republic of Ireland.
Which Micro States Can You Visit In Europe With ETIAS?
ETIAS-approved visitors can visit San Marino, Andorra, The Vatican, and Monaco.
How Do I Apply For ETIAS?
You can apply for ETIAS online once the Portal is open. You must fill out the online form,
declare that your information is valid and submit it for approval.
How Will The Application Fee Be Paid?
The application fee will be paid online using a debit or credit card. Application fees do not guarantee that your request for a pass into Europe will be approved, and the fee is non-refundable.
When Is The Best Time To Apply For ETIAS?
It is best to apply at least 96 hours before you travel, even though the process takes only a few minutes. This will ensure that you don’t jeopardize your travel plans in case there is a need for the manual unit to process your application.
Can I apply If I Have A Criminal Record?
You can apply if your case is not too serious. Applications are determined on a case-by-case basis.