Why is Etias needed? If the current visa free policy works, why is there a need to introduce a new policy for visitors from visa free countries? The main purpose is to liberalize Immigration policy in Schengen countries and to strengthen the border security of Europe. This article contains vital information about the new policy for EU visitors from visa-exempt countries.
Etias
There are more than 60 countries whose citizens qualify for visa free travel to all 27 Schengen countries and a few other non-Schengen countries in Europe. These countries don’t request visas for such trackers unless they want to stay longer than 90 days. Although the EU has not stopped visa-free entry, it has introduced a security vetting system that all visitors from these countries must pass through to ensure that only those with clean records and who are risk-free will be allowed into EU borders.
Visitors from the US, UK, Argentina, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and more can visit and stay for tourism or business reason but not for study or employment for up to 90 days. At the border or airport, all they have to do is show a valid passport to prove their citizenship, and they will be allowed into the Country of their choice in Europe.
While the visa free regime will remain in place, they will be required to show the European Travel Information and Authorization System document to prove that they are not a security risk to their host country.
Why Is ETIAS Needed?
ETIAS is needed because of security concerns that have plagued Europe for a very long time. These concerns include terrorist attacks or the increase in terrorist risks. The second concern is the migrant crisis that has gripped Europe in recent times. As significant populations migrate illegally from Africa and the middle east through Turkey and other Central European countries, this massive inflow of people has increased the possibility of criminal elements entering Europe and places social infrastructure in affected countries under significant strain.
Another factor that has necessitated the need for ETIAS is the pandemic 2020 which wreaked havoc on the world. To ensure that the continent is not gripped by dangerous viruses in the future, there is a section for the visitor’s brief medical history. Authorities will want to know whether they have been to countries or regions with a high risk of certain diseases.
A Tracking System
Etias is basically a tracking system that will help European governments track who comes in and out of their respective countries for greater security harmonization. Once it goes into full operation at the start of 2024, it will be mandatory for all eligible visitors to have it.
What Is ETIAS For?
To understand what Etias is for, it may be necessary to understand what it is not for. Etias is not for long term visits to Europe such as work, study, or retirement. Rather, it is for short-term visits like tourism, family and friends, and business trips. It doesn’t qualify you for a residency card or serve as a route to citizenship, and you will need an appropriate visa to qualify for residency or work in Europe.
Where Can You Visit With ETIAS?
You can visit all 27 Schengen countries with ETIAS, including Romania, Cyprus, Bulgaria, and Croatia. The visa is a multiple entry permit that qualifies the holder for visa free travel to all countries in Europe, excluding the Republic of Ireland.
How To Apply For Your ETIAS Approval?
You don’t need to travel to the visa, nor should you submit physical documents or exist for several weeks or months to get your application approved. From the comfort of your home or office, you can fill out the form on VisaHQ and submit it for approval. Do the following
Visit VisaHQ
Choose the first Country you want to visit
Choose your Country of citizenship
Select Etias
Complete the application form
Upload your passport bio page and other required documents
Pay the visa fee
Submit for approval
Once approved, the ETIAS visa waiver will be forwarded to your email. Print it and travel with it for evidence.
ETIAS Passport Requirements
To qualify for ETIAS, you must submit a valid passport that will cover the time you stay in the Schengen zone. If your passport will expire before you leave or on the day you plan to leave, your application will be denied. It has to cover your stay by a day or two beyond your departure date.
Etias Application Fee
Etias will cost a fee of €7 for 18-70 year old visitors. Those under 18 and above 70 do not have to pay the fee.
Why is ETIAS needed? It is needed to protect EU borders from Illegal migration and terror risks.