The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is set to be introduced in 2024 after initially being planned for 2022. The delay was thought to be because of needing to update travel infrastructures and the onset of the COVID pandemic.
UK travellers will need an ETIAS for most EU countries. Travel permits will be available to buy online when the scheme launches and will cost around €7 (£6) for people over 18. Travellers under 18 or over 70 will receive their ETIAS free of charge.
ETIAS will be used to keep track of visitors from countries who do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Zone, and to enhance border security.
It is designed for short-term stays of 90 days or less, and includes travel for business, pleasure, medical reasons, or if you are transiting through the EU to a further destination.
You could be denied an ETIAS if you give the wrong information online, are a convicted criminal or are on a travel watch list.
You will need to present the document on arrival at your travel destination and could be refused to fly or denied entry into the EU without one.
Similar to a US ESTA, it is expected to be processed and approved within minutes. It will also be valid for three years from the date of issue, making it easier for future travel.
The European countries that will require a valid ETIAS upon arrival at their borders include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
See: ETIAS - European Travel Information and Authorisation System (schengenvisainfo.com)
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