Who needs to apply ETIAS? Is this new travel authorization for everyone coming to Europe, or is it for a select category of travelers? Knowing what to expect or the requirements as a traveler is key if you want to enjoy a hitch-free trip.
The European Commission has announced this new System which will change how travelers from visa free countries enter Europe, so it is important to get all the facts about ETIAS, so you are prepared for the changes.
The Introduction of ETIAS
According to the new regulations introduced by the European Commission, visitors coming to Europe from a list of countries will require ETIAS starting in 2024. The European travel and information authorization system is an electronic system that checks traveler identity for risks.
This authorization is designed for travelers from visa-free countries to Schengen Europe. Those who could previously enter Europe without a visa can still do the same but with this authorization.
The form is available online and can be completed in a matter of minutes, but it is not a visa but a permit. When an eligible visitor holds this document, it simply means that he or she has been adjudged as safe and posing no risk to the security integrity of the European country they intend to visit. ETIAS was introduced by Schengen countries to protect themselves from security risks like terrorism, drug or human trafficking, etc.
Who Needs To Apply for ETIAS?
As we mentioned above, it is a travel document required for all visitors coming to Europe from Visa free countries. There are currently more than 50 countries on the visa free list, such as the US, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, UK, to mention a few.
United Kingdom citizens will need ETIAS because the UK is no longer part of the European Union since its decision to exit the union.
ETIAS Exemptions
There are ETIAS exemptions you should know of, as the EU has made special provisions for people who call into special categories. Let’s review these exemptions.
Stateless Persons: Travelers who are stateless, especially due to war, do not need ETIAS as they have no document issued by a sovereign state
Uniform Visa: Foreigners who need Schengen visas before introducing this new policy are not eligible for ETIAS, so they don’t need it.
Long Stay Visas: Foreigners who already have long-stay visas that remain valid don’t need ETIAS to enter Europe.
Diplomatic Passport Holders: Holders of diplomatic passports who could previously enter the Schengen Area without a visa can continue to do so without ETIAS.
Border Traffic Permit: Travelers who have border Traffic permits issued by a member of Schengen country for free movement within local traffic laws don’t need this authorization.
Family Member: Under special conditions, travelers with family members who meet special criteria under EU laws don’t need ETIAS.
How To Apply For ETIAS?
This authorization can be obtained online by filling out a form. The applicant must also submit valid passport information and a few other details. You can apply for Etias on VisaHQ by doing the following:
Log onto VisaHQ
Choose the European country you want to visit
Choose your country of citizenship
Select ETIAS
Fill out the application form
Scan and upload the travel documents required
Pay the application fee
Submit for approval
The security checks take only a few minutes as the System runs your information across several databases. If the check is completed and there are no alert triggers, your application will be successful, and the permit will be forwarded to you via email. If there are alert triggers, your application will be referred to a special team in the primary country you plan to visit for evaluation.
Application For Minors
Minors under 18 can still apply for ETIAS, but their parents or legal guardian must apply for it on their behalf and provide proof of guardianship. The authorities have put this check in place to prevent child trafficking.
ETIAS Requirements
The requirements for ETIAS are very few compared to visa applications. The applicant needs a valid passport that will not expire in the next six months. Passport information such as the date of issue and expiry dates are required, including information about nationality, whether they have been to war-torn countries before, or countries experiencing pandemics. Information about the destination country is also required.
Applicants should note that the ETIAS is linked to their passport, so they must provide the same passport at the port of entry which they used to apply for ETIAS. This authorization is valid for 3 years and is a multiple-entry travel document. Now that you know who needs to apply ETIAS, head to VisaHQ to complete and submit the application form.