Online – Etias

1. What is the purpose of the ETIAS online system?


The purpose of the ETIAS online system is to pre-screen travelers from visa-exempt countries before their arrival in the European Union. This system helps to enhance security, identify potential threats, and facilitate smoother entry for travelers who do not require a visa for short-term stays in the EU.

2. Who needs to apply for an ETIAS?


ETIAS is a travel authorization that will be required for citizens of non-European Union countries who currently do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Area. This includes nationals from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan.

Citizens of EU countries, as well as citizens of countries that are part of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, will not be required to apply for an ETIAS. However, they may still need to provide other forms of documentation when traveling to the Schengen Area.

3. How do I apply for an ETIAS?


You can apply for an ETIAS online through the official website once it becomes operational in late 2022. The application process will involve filling out an online form and paying a fee, as well as providing personal and travel information. You may also be required to submit documentation such as a valid passport, proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for your trip. The application will then undergo security checks before being approved or denied.

For more information on how to apply for an ETIAS, you can visit the European Commission’s dedicated website for the ETIAS system.

4. What countries are exempt from requiring an ETIAS?


The following countries are currently exempt from requiring an ETIAS:
1. All European Union member states
2. Albania
3. Andorra
4. Antigua and Barbuda
5. Argentina
6. Australia
7. Bahamas
8. Barbados
9. Bosnia and Herzegovina
10.Canada
11.Chile
12.Colombia
13.Costa Rica
14.Dominica
15.El Salvador
16.Georgia
17.Grenada
18.Guatemala
19.Honduras
20.Hong Kong SAR (Special Administrative Region) of China
21.Israel
22.Japan
23.Macao SAR (Special Administrative Region) of China
24.Malaysia
25.Mauritius
26.Mexico
27.Monaco
28.Montenegro
29.New Zealand
30.Nicaragua
31.North Macedonia (formerly known as the FYROM)
32.Palau
33.Panama
34.Paraguay
35.Peru
36.Saint Kitts and Nevis
37.Saint Lucia
38.Serbia
39.Seychelles
40.Singapore
41.South Korea
42.Taiwan
43.United Arab Emirates
44.United States of America
45.Uruguay
46.Vanuatu

5. How long does it take to get an approved ETIAS application?


The ETIAS application can be completed online in a matter of minutes. However, the processing time for approval may vary and can take up to 72 hours. In some cases, it may take longer if additional information or documentation is required. It is recommended to apply for an ETIAS at least a few days before your intended trip to allow for any potential delays in processing.

6. How much does the ETIAS application cost?


The ETIAS application fee is €7 for adults (18 years old and above) and free for minors (under 18 years old). The fee can be paid by credit or debit card during the application process.

7. Is there a deadline to apply for an ETIAS?


Yes, the deadline to apply for an ETIAS is expected to begin in late 2022. The exact date has not been announced yet but it is recommended to apply at least 72 hours before your intended departure.

8. What information do I need to provide in my ETIAS application?


1. Personal Information: This includes your full name, date of birth, gender, nationality, and contact details such as a valid email address and phone number.

2. Passport Information: You will need to provide your passport details including the passport number, issue date and expiry date.

3. Residence and Employment: ETIAS requires you to disclose your current residence and employment status. You will need to provide your home address as well as the name and address of your employer or educational institution.

4. Travel Information: This section will require you to enter information about your intended travel such as your departure date, destination country, purpose of visit, and the duration of your stay.

5. Previous Visits to EU Countries: ETIAS also asks applicants about their previous visits to EU countries in the past 3 years. You will need to provide the dates, countries visited and reasons for travel.

6. Background Questions: This section may ask about any criminal history or previous refusals of entry into any countries.

7. Medical Information: ETIAS requires applicants to declare any medical conditions that could pose a threat to public health or safety during their stay.

8. Security Questions: The final section may ask questions related to security issues like terrorist activities or organized crime involvement.

It is important to provide accurate and truthful information while filling out the application form as any incorrect information could lead to a denial of your ETIAS authorization.

9. Will my personal information be kept confidential in the ETIAS system?


Yes, the ETIAS system is designed to keep personal information confidential and secure. The system follows strict measures to protect personal data and adheres to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of the European Union. This means that your personal information will not be shared with unauthorized parties without your consent.

10. Is there a limit to the number of times I can use my approved ETIAS?


Your approved ETIAS will be valid for three years or until the expiry of your passport, whichever comes first. This means you can use it multiple times within that time frame as long as your passport remains valid. Once your ETIAS expires, you will need to apply for a new one before traveling to the Schengen area again.

11. Can I extend my stay with an approved ETIAS?


No, ETIAS only allows travelers to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for a different type of visa from the specific country you wish to visit or from one of the European Union countries that is not part of the Schengen Area.

12. Can I use my approved ETIAS for multiple European countries?

No, the ETIAS is a multi-country authorization that allows you to travel within any of the 26 Schengen countries. However, you can only enter and stay in one country at a time, as your travel purpose must also be stated during the application process. If you plan to visit multiple Schengen countries, you will need to provide documentation for your main destination or the country where you will spend most of your time during your trip.

13. Can I change my travel plans after receiving an approved ETIAS?


Yes, you can change your travel plans after receiving an approved ETIAS. The ETIAS is valid for 3 years and allows multiple entries within that time frame. As long as your new travel plans fall within the validity period and purpose of your approved application, you can use your ETIAS for the intended purpose of travel without needing to reapply. However, if there are significant changes in your travel plans or if you need to stay longer than 90 days within a 180-day period, you may need to reapply for a new ETIAS.

14. Will I receive a physical document for my approved ETIAS?

No, you will not receive a physical document for your approved ETIAS. Instead, you will receive an email confirmation with your ETIAS approval and reference number, which you can print out and keep for your records. You may also be asked to present this confirmation at the border when entering the Schengen Area.

15. Do children also need to apply for an ETIAS?


Yes, all travelers, including children, will need to apply for an ETIAS before traveling to the Schengen area. However, infants under the age of 7 are exempt from the application fee.

16. Are all nationalities required to have an approved ETIAS when traveling to Europe?


Yes, all nationalities that currently do not require a visa to enter Europe for short stays (90 days or less within a 180-day period) will be required to have an approved ETIAS before traveling. This includes citizens of countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan. However, there are some exemptions for certain groups of travelers, such as EU citizens and citizens of countries with visa-free agreements with the EU.

17. Will having a criminal record affect my chances of getting an approved ETIAS?


Possibly, if the criminal record includes convictions for serious crimes such as terrorism, drug trafficking, or human trafficking. ETIAS screens individuals against various databases, including law enforcement databases, and those with a history of serious crimes may be deemed a security risk and denied authorization.

18. Can I cancel or withdraw my ETIAS application?


Yes, you can cancel or withdraw your ETIAS application before it has been approved. However, once the application has been submitted and processed, it cannot be canceled or withdrawn. If you wish to cancel or withdraw an application that has already been approved, you can request for the cancellation of your ETIAS through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) contact form.

19.Can I reapply if my initial application for an approval is denied?

Yes, you can reapply if your initial application for an approval is denied. However, before doing so, it is important to analyze and address the reasons why your application was denied in the first place. This may involve addressing any deficiencies in your qualifications or clarifying any misunderstandings in your application. It may also be helpful to seek feedback from the reviewing authority or consult with a professional to ensure that you have a better chance of approval with your second application.

20.Can I use a third party service or agency to apply for my ETIAS on my behalf?


Yes, you can use a third party service or agency to apply for your ETIAS on your behalf. However, please be cautious when using such services as they may charge additional fees and cannot guarantee the approval of your application. It is recommended to carefully research and choose a reputable and authorized third party service or agency for assistance with your ETIAS application.