Once the new travel policy initiated by the European Commission comes into force in 2024, you will need to know where to apply for ETIAS. We know that travelers who can visit EU and Schengen countries without visas will still be allowed to do that once the new policy becomes active.
Holders of ETIAS will still be able to visit Europe for business, tourism, and as transit travelers like before since their eligibility for visa free travel will not change. In this article, you will find out what the new policy is all about and how you can apply for it with the etias application form.
ETIAS Explained
ETIAS visa waiver is the European Travel Information and Authorization System, and it is a European travel security system similar to the American ETAS, which is also a security checking system. This System conducts background checks on interested travelers looking to enter Europe for potential security risks. The System works with multiple security databases such as Europol and Interpol.
The primary function of this System is to ensure safety of EU citizens by limiting the potential of criminal elements to gain entry into European countries.
ETIAS can also be described as a visa waiver program for selected citizens from visa free countries.
Those from such countries that meet the requirements for ETIAS can still enter Schengen member countries without visas, but those who do not qualify for it by virtue of their nationality can still enter with Schengen visas.
Why Was The System Created?
ETIAS was created to secure EU borders and foster collaboration between EU countries in safety and border security. The System aims to promote secure borders and policy cohesion among member states so that all Schengen countries will accept the same document, just like the Schengen visa. For example, a visitor who gets ETIAS from Spain can use the same document to enter Germany, Czech or any other country.
The Commission also states that travelers may not need to undergo border checks to encourage the free flow of people; checks may only be required in special cases. Apart from border security, ETIAS will also be used to secure the health of Europeans by preventing the spread of diseases and viruses from prone regions or countries.
Which Countries Will Be Affected?
The countries that will be affected are the 26 countries that are signatories to the Schengen Agreement established in 1989. Countries in the Unions operate the same border policies, which removes travel restrictions among EU citizens.
The Agreement also allows the same visa for travelers from abroad, so travelers can use the same visa to access multiple countries. The same will be the case with ETIAS, as holders can freely travel from one country to the next in the region.
All 26 countries require visitors to acquire authorization before entering their borders.
ETIAS Validity and Length of Stay
The authorization will last 3 years after it is approved and allow travelers to stay in Europe for at least 90 days per visit. This permit is issued solely for tourism, transit, and short business trips, not for extended stay, work, or study. If your engagement lasts longer than the approved three months, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa instead.
Where To Apply For ETIAS?
You don’t need to visit the embassy or deal with any travel agency to obtain this travel document, as it is done online. The application takes about 10 minutes to complete, and the security check is done immediately after submitting your details. VisaHQ will provide applicants the platform to complete and submit the form for approval.
To apply for Etias, here are the steps to take
Visit VisaHQ
Choose your primary destination
Choose your country
Fill the form
Attach documents
Pay the application fee
Submit for approval
After submission, you must wait a few minutes for the System to run security checks across multiple databases. To avoid waiting too long, use very strong broadband.
Not All European Countries Will Need ETIAS
Not all EU countries will need ETIAS for visitors because not all are members of the Schengen Areas. Some of these countries have ported out of ETIAS, while others have not met the requirements yet to use the System, so for such countries, you may need to apply for a visa instead. The countries that will not require ETIAS include Cyprus, Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, and Ireland.
This list of countries may not stay the same as some may opt to join the Schengen Agreement and, by extension, approve ETIAS by next year, so stay informed about such changes.
Now that you know where to apply for ETIAS, visit VisaHQ to complete and submit your application form.