When Should I Apply for Europe’s New Travel Authorization?
Image by Julius Silver from Pixabay
If you visit Europe regularly, you’ve probably already heard of ETIAS, the Electronic Travel Information and Authorization System. With the launch date now approaching, it’s time to understand more about the essential entry permit.
This article explains the most important information including the launch date and how to apply. For further details and more in-depth analysis check here.
Available in 2023
Anyone hoping to travel to Europe in 2021 may be wondering whether they’ll need ETIAS. It was previously scheduled to come into effect this year, however, the launch date has been pushed back to late 2023.
It’s worth noting that a 6-month implementation period is expected once the permit becomes available. During this time ETIAS will be available online but it won’t be mandatory.
Despite not being live yet, you are advised to familiarize yourself with the new entry requirement. From 2022, you’ll need it if you want to travel to any of the 26 countries that make up the Schengen Area. That list includes France, Germany, Italy, and Spain among other top tourist destinations.
Safer European Travel
So, what exactly is ETIAS and why will you need it? Essentially, ETIAS is Europe’s version of the US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). Both these permits allow foreign citizens to enter another country or region without applying for a visa.
Americans can visit the Schengen Area for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa. Visa-free transit is also permitted. This will not change with the introduction of the new electronic travel authorization.
This entry requirement is being introduced to make visa-free entry safer. With the new technology up and running, all visitors from outside Europe will be screened before they arrive, allowing authorities to detect potential threats and keep residents and visitors safe.
Several European security databases will be involved. When you apply, your details will be cross-checked against Europol, Eurodac, and Interpol, among others. Provided nothing is flagged up, and you meet all the other requirements, you’ll be approved for travel almost immediately.
How to Apply
Applying for the electronic travel authorization will be quick and easy. You’ll just need to fill out an online form with basic information and answer some health and security questions.
There’ll be a processing fee which you can pay online before submitting your application. You’ll be informed by email once your request has been approved.
You won’t need to apply each time you travel. ETIAS will be valid for 3 years unless your passport expires sooner. All your vacations and business trips during this period are covered by the same visa waiver. Just bear in mind that the maximum length of stay is 90 days per 180-day period.
As there are no internal border checks in the Schengen Area, you can use your permit to visit any of the countries that make up the region. You won’t need a separate authorization for each country.
Covid Entry Requirements
Whilst ETIAS will not be required until 2022, there are some other entry requirements you need to be aware of to visit Europe in 2021.
Non-essential travel from the United States to the Schengen Area is currently restricted. However, it is hoped that vaccinated Americans will be able to visit EU destinations in the summer.
The European Union provides guidelines on travel during Covid-19 but each Member State implements its own rules. For this reason, the entry requirements differ from country to country.
As a general rule, Americans who are able to travel to Europe despite the current restrictions will need to complete an online form, usually providing health information and contact details. Spain, Italy, and France all have their own versions of the form.
In addition, a certificate showing a recent negative COVID-19 test is required by European countries. In most cases, this must be a PCR test carried out no more than 72 hours before departure. Americans may be subject to quarantine on arrival in Europe.
These requirements and restrictions are updated regularly by EU Member State authorities. If you wish to travel to a European country during the pandemic you must first consult the latest travel advisory for your intended destination.