Navigating New European Travel Regulations with ETIAS
Ensuring smooth travel for international delegates is a key concern for event professionals planning in Europe. The introduction of ETIAS brings new protocols that may impact attendees from various countries. For our dedicated buyers and event planners, understanding and navigating these changes is crucial to create seamless and compliant experiences for all participants (including us Brits).
In 2016, the European Union announced the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, known as ETIAS, marking a significant development in Europe’s internal security. Established formally in September 2018, ETIAS is not a visa but a pre-travel screening protocol for travellers who do not require a visa. Scheduled to launch in 2024, ETIAS is among the measures undertaken as part of the security union with the primary objectives of tightening border security and migration.
Understanding ETIAS
ETIAS serves as a travel authorisation for non-EU citizens. It is designed for those who do not require a visa for the Schengen Area, facilitating secure and regulated travel throughout. The ETIAS visa waiver applies to short-term stays of up to 90 days for various purposes such as business, leisure, and short-term studies and is valid for 3 years or until the passport expires.
Who Needs ETIAS?
ETIAS mandates citizens from visa-exempt countries such as the USA, Canada, and Australia to adhere to its regulations for short-term travel in the Schengen Zone. Ensure eligibility and understand exemptions before applying. For detailed information, you can explore the official ETIAS guidelines here.
How Does ETIAS Work?
The ETIAS application process is straightforward and online, usually taking about 10 minutes. Applicants must supply important travel and passport details as well as answer security questions. The information is checked against EU databases, including Europol, to identify possible security or migration risks. While travel authorisations are often issued within minutes, some can take up to 30 days for approval. However, If an alert is triggered in any system the responsible ETIAS National Unit manually reviews the application, potentially requiring an interview in under 0.1% of cases. As ETIAS authorisation is compulsory for entry to Schengen States, border guards will check upon arrival into the EU. Managed by eu-LISA, ETIAS is expected to be operational by the end of 2023 although there have been doubts as it's rumored to be as late as 2025.
Pricing and Approval
The ETIAS application incurs a fee of €7 for travellers aged 18 to 70 and is free for those outside this age bracket. Notably, over 95% of applications are expected to be automatically and promptly approved, ensuring minimal disruption to travel planning.
Implementation Timeline
Although ETIAS was established in 2018, its operational rollout is slated for 2024. Continuous monitoring of the latest information and updates regarding ETIAS is crucial for travellers to comply with new travel regulations as they are implemented.
In Conclusion
The introduction of ETIAS brings a new layer to planning and managing travel, especially within the Schengen Zone. For event professionals and travellers, understanding and complying with these new guidelines is crucial to ensure seamless journeys and successful international events.
Recent Updates
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The implementation of ETIAS has been delayed until 2024, up from the most recently scheduled launch of November 2023 (source).
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The EU is expected to set out a revised schedule for EES and related systems, including ETIAS, in October 2023 (source).
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There are indications that ETIAS might face further delays, potentially until 2025 (source).