Starting at the end of 2022, citizens from over 60 different countries will need to apply for ETIAS before entering the Schengen zone. That will include travelers from the UK, since they have left the EU, over a year ago. The ETIAS is not a visa but a measure of protection and safety regarding who comes inside the territory. Here is what you need to know.
Not Yet in Place
It is important to start by informing readers that the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is currently being created to be launched sometimes at the end of 2022. Therefore, when preparing your next visit to France for camping holidays, you don’t need to apply for it. You can just look up Canvas Holidays to find the best location, find a plane ticket and you are all set for next summer.
Not a Visa
The ETIAS is not considered as a visa. It is a document that will be needed to cross an external border of the EU, for all non-EU citizens, including UK residents. The application process will be very simple and can be done online. Only a few minutes will be needed to complete the information required on it.
What will be required to apply for ETIAS
A valid passport from ETIAS approved countries (about 60 of them). A credit card (or debit card) to pay the seven euros fees that will be charged when applying for ETIAS. An email account where the decision to grant entry into the EU will be sent to. The form will have to be completed truthfully and accurately for the ETIAS to be approved.
What information will be asked when applying for ETIAS
To start with, any person applying for an ETIAS will be asked to inform on their name (full), date and place of birth, as well as their gender. A contact detail information should also be made available, which will include a current address of residency, an email address as well as a phone number. Passports details including number, name of country that issued it, the date it was delivered and the date of expiration will also be asked for.
Travelers will need to provide a plan of where they intend to go during their stay in the Schengen area. Information about their health and other security related questions may be asked to complete the form. Once sent, this information will be cross-checked with Schengen security databases, to make sure that the individual wanting to come in doesn’t pose a threat.
Length of Stay Inside the EU
When someone will enter the Schengen area with and ETIAS, that person will have the right to stay in any of the countries for 90 days per period of 180 days. That said, it will enable the passport holder to remain in the same country for multiple stays of up to 3 months.
In the end, the application will be accepted or negated by email. It is anticipated, at this point, that 95% of the demands will be accepted positively and that those travelers will be granted entry into the Schengen area.
