The European Union is preparing to launch a new visa waiver system for eligible non-EU citizens. This €7 (£6) waiver will be required for travellers from a select group of countries, including the UK, to visit the Schengen Area.

The Schengen Area encompasses 26 EU member states, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. This means that visitors from eligible countries will need to obtain the waiver before travelling to any of these countries.

The new system is similar to the US ESTA and is expected to be implemented by summer 2025. It aims to streamline the travel process and enhance border security while facilitating tourism to the Schengen Area.

Who Needs an ETIAS?

ETIAS will be mandatory for citizens of visa-exempt countries who plan to travel to the Schengen Area. This includes citizens of the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries.

How to Apply for an ETIAS

The application process for ETIAS will be entirely online. Travellers will need to fill out a simple form and provide basic information such as their passport details, travel history, and contact information. The application fee will be €7.

Once submitted, the ETIAS application will be processed within a few minutes. If approved, travellers will receive a travel authorization that is valid for three years or until their passport expires.

It is important to note that obtaining an ETIAS does not guarantee entry into the Schengen Area. Border guards may still deny entry if a traveller does not meet the requirements for admission, such as having a valid passport and sufficient funds for their stay.

However, ETIAS will make the travel process more efficient and reduce waiting times at border crossings. By pre-screening travellers before they arrive, the EU aims to improve border security and facilitate tourism.

ETIAS Fee and Validity

• ETIAS Fee

The ETIAS fee is €7 or £6. This fee is charged for each application, regardless of the traveller's age or the duration of their stay.

• ETIAS Validity

An approved ETIAS is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This means that you can travel multiple times to the Schengen Area within this validity period without needing to apply for a new ETIAS.

ETIAS and Passport Requirements

The ETIAS and passport requirements are essential for non-EU citizens who wish to travel to the Schengen Area. These requirements ensure that travellers have valid documentation and meet the necessary criteria for entry.

• Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your departure from the Schengen Area.
• Type: Your passport must be an ordinary passport issued by a government authority.
• Biometric Data: Your passport must contain biometric data (e.g., fingerprint or facial image).
• Additional Requirements: You may need to provide proof of insurance, accommodation, and funds.

European Entry System (EES)

The European Entry System (EES) is a new border control system that will be implemented by the European Union (EU) in 2025. It is designed to enhance border security and streamline the entry process for non-EU citizens who wish to visit the Schengen Area.

How Does EES Work?

EES will be used to register the entry and exit of non-EU citizens into and from the Schengen Area. When you arrive at a Schengen border, your passport will be scanned and your biometric data (fingerprints and facial image) will be collected. This information will be stored in a central database and used to verify your identity and track your movements within the Schengen Area.

Biometric Data Collection

The collection of biometric data is a mandatory requirement for all non-EU citizens who enter the Schengen Area. This information will be used to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

EES Implementation Timeline

The EES will be fully implemented by the end of 2025, but some countries may start using it earlier. It may cause temporary delays at borders but will improve security and help track potential threats.

Impact of ETIAS and EES on Travelers

The ETIAS and EES systems will both have advantages and disadvantages for travellers. While they aim to improve border security and streamline travel, they may also introduce new requirements and potential delays.