What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is an acronym for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. It was created in September 2018 and is designed to improve the security of EU member states within the Schengen region. It captures data on travellers who visit the 26 countries within the Schengen Area without a visa.

It’s important to know that ETIAS is not a visa, it is a visa waiver, similar to an ESTA for entering the US.

Do British passport holders need a visa to enter the EU?

Currently, British citizens do not need a visa to enter EU countries and the ETIAS is not yet operational. The EU plans to announce the date of when this program will be operational at the end of 2023. Until those plans are announced, you can enter the EU without a visa or an ETIAS waiver.

Once they confirm the live date, travellers will need valid ETIAS in order to enter any country in the Schengen Area, and three others. These countries are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Greece, Finland, France, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Latvia, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Spain, Slovenia, Slovakia and Switzerland.

Do I need ETIAS in 2023?

British citizens do not need an ETIAS in 2023.

When does ETIAS start?

There is no confirmed date for when the ETIAS will kick off, but the EU expects the confirmed launch date to be announced at the end of 2023.

How does ETIAS work?

Britons can apply for their ETIAS online and expect a response within minutes. They must apply for it at least 96 hours before boarding transport to their destination (whether by land, air or sea).

The ETIAS is valid for three years and covers all countries in the Schengen Area plus Cyprus, Iceland and Romania.

If you are a dual citizen who holds a UK passport and an EU passport, you will not need an ETIAS assuming you use your EU passport to enter and exit your Schengen destination.

Applicants with previous criminal history will be able to apply for ETIAS.

How much is an ETIAS?

An ETIAS costs €7, unless you are under 18 or over 70 years of age, in which case it’s free. Those travellers will still need to obtain an ETIAS to travel, however.

How long can I travel in the EU on ETIAS?

While the ETIAS is valid for three years, the same rules for travelling to the EU remain in place. Britons travelling as tourists can stay in an EU country for no longer than 90 days in every 180.

Will I need an ETIAS for each country?

No, your ETIAS will be valid in all the countries outlined above, so you only need to purchase one document for your trip.

However, on the application, you will need to confirm which country you’ll be entering first.

Do I need travel insurance when travelling to the EU?

Travel insurance when travelling to the EU is not mandatory, however, it is recommended. As well as ensuring you will be compensated for travel issues, loss of belongings and other frequent holiday issues, you will have healthcare cover. Consider applying for the EHIC or GHIC before you depart, which can help you provide discounted healthcare while in the EU.

Until da next tyme

Sourced from Skyscanner