Travel with an ETIAS or visa in Europe

The European Union (EU) is preparing to set up a computerized system to reinforce national security and facilitate short-term stays for nationals from outside Europe. This platform will make it possible to assess the risks associated with travelers without a Schengen visa before their arrival on European territory. Travelers will need to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization before embarking for Europe.

This electronic authorization can be obtained by completing the ETIAS form online.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is a system implemented by the EU to enhance security and manage migration. It will require citizens of certain countries to obtain authorization to travel to the EU for short stays. The aim of ETIAS is to identify potential security threats and prevent them from entering the EU before they reach the border. An ETIAS is not a visa, but will complement the existing visa system and provide an additional layer of security for the EU.

When will ETIAS be implemented?

The launch date of ETIAS will be known in 2025. The European Union has been preparing the introduction of the ETIAS system for several years. Its launch has been announced several times and then postponed.

How do I apply for ETIAS?

Not all travelers will be able to obtain an ETIAS. Travelers wishing to apply must first check that they meet the ETIAS eligibility criteria. These conditions determine which foreign nationals can travel to Europe for stays of less than 90 days without a visa.

The ETIAS authorization allows you to travel in Europe for tourism or business purposes. It will also be possible to transit Europe with an ETIAS. All travelers will need a personal authorization to travel. Parents must submit an ETIAS application for minors for each child, regardless of age.

To obtain an ETIAS, applicants must log on to the official ESTA website to complete the ETIAS form. The online process takes just a few minutes once the applicant has all their travel information. The questions on the ETIAS form are divided into the following categories:

• Identity information
• Passport information for the USA;
• Travel information;
• Questions about medical and criminal history

It is important to answer all the questions on the ETIAS form accurately and honestly. Any false declaration may result in refusal of the ETIAS.

Obtain ETIAS authorization to travel in Europe

To finalize the application, the applicant must pay for the ETIAS. Despite what some travelers may think, there is no such thing as a free ETIAS authorization. The ESTA fee has been set to cover the administrative costs of managing the program for the European Union. Payment by credit card triggers automatic processing of the ETIAS request. In most cases, the computerized response will reach the candidate by email within a few minutes.

For some applications, ETIAS status will be pending. This means that processing will take longer, but it does not mean that the application will be refused. The EU undertakes to respect a timeframe for ETIAS ranging from a few minutes to a maximum of 30 days for processing applications.

Once the authorization is accepted, the traveler can make several stays of up to 90 days in Europe during the validity period of the ETIAS.

Countries that can be visited with an ETIAS

A number of countries in Europe can be visited with an ETIAS travel authorization. The travel authorization will enable you to travel in Northern Europe, for example with an ETAIS for Norway or an ETIAS for Denmark. An ETIAS for France will enable you to visit Paris, while an ETIAS for Belgium will enable you to visit Brussels. An ETIAS authorization will allow you to visit the whole of Europe. For example, an ETIAS for Italy, if you want to start your trip in Southern Europe, or an ETIAS for Portugal, or an ETIAS for Spain. An ETIAS for Greece will enable travelers to discover the country’s ancient wonders.