ETIAS

Starting in 2021, the European Commission will roll out an electronic travel authorization system called ETIAS for visitors from countries that are not in the EU and who do not need a visa for entry into the Schengen Area. This means that all non-EU nationals who do not need a visa to travel to the Schengen Area must apply for travel authorization through the ETIAS system prior to their trip. With ETIAS authorization, visitors will be able to enter countries in the Schengen Area for business or travel purposes and be allowed to engage in business and tourist activities for up to 90 days.

ETIAS is an electronic system that has been created to enhance security level, reduce delays at the borders and strengthen external and internal border control within Europe. As ETIAS digitally screens and tracks visitors, the system can identify any risks associated with visa-exempt visitors entering and leaving the 26 European states in the Schengen Area.

ETIAS authorization is not a visa. Rather, it is a permit or visa waiver. It is similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in the United States and will consist of an online application system that checks each applicant’s identity and passport information against various EU databases. Once approved, an ETIAS authorization is valid for 3 years or until the end of validity of the travel document registered during application. However, a successful ETIAS application does not guarantee entry to the destination country as all visitors are still subject to border checks.

Below is the list of the countries/nationalities who need to apply for ETIAS authorization prior to traveling to the Schengen Area. It is important to note that more countries may be added to the list before the launch of the system in 2021.