To enter the Schengen area, foreign travelers must have a passport that meets a number of specific criteria. In order to complete the ETIAS form online, travelers must ensure that their passport meets the main requirements of the European Union.
Passport requirements for entry into the Schengen area
- Valid passport: The passport must be valid for at least three months after the planned date of departure from the Schengen area. In addition, it must have been issued within the last ten years.
- Biometric passport: Although not an absolute requirement for all travelers, a biometric passport greatly facilitates the border verification process and is recommended for entry into the Schengen area. These passports contain an electronic chip with the holder’s biometric data.
- Service or diplomatic passports: Holders of diplomatic or service passports from certain countries may be exempt from the Schengen visa or ETIAS authorization requirement. They benefit from special facilities under bilateral agreements between their country of origin and the European Union.
- Passport with valid visa: If the traveler’s country of origin is not visa-free for short stays, a valid Schengen visa must be affixed to the passport. It allows free travel within the 26 member countries of the Schengen area for a maximum period of 90 days over a 180-day period.
Additional documents
In addition to passports, travelers must also prepare other documents to enter the Schengen area:
- Proof of financial means: Proof of sufficient funds to cover expenses during the stay.
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservation, letter of invitation or any other document proving where the traveler will be staying.
- Return or onward ticket: Proof of departure from the Schengen area before the expiry of the visa or residence permit.
In short, travelers need to ensure that their passport is valid, ideally biometric, and meets specific time validity and fitness requirements. It is also essential to check the specific visa or ETIAS authorization requirements according to their nationality and the type of passport they hold.