Those wanting to travel to the majority of countries in Europe will be affected.
Holidaygoers will soon be unable to enter countries like Greece, Spain, France and Portugal without a travel permit.
The new scheme, named the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), means that Most tourists will have to purchase a travel permit to be allowed entry into the EU. The permit will cost around (€7) for those over the age of 18.
It is a completely electronic system that allows authorities to keep track of visitors from countries who do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Zone.
With an ETIAS, applicants can stay in Europe for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-period. The ETIAS is valid for three years, during which time you can travel to Europe multiple times. While most tourists do not need to apply for a VISA, the ETIAS will see each applicant undergo a detailed check.
This is to determine whether you are allowed to travel to the likes of Greece , Spain, France, Portugal, Italy and other hugely popular holiday destinations. Official EU guidance states that ETIAS will function in the same way as the American ESTA (Electronic System For Travel Authorisation).
When will the ETIAS be introduced?
The ETIAS is set to be introduced in 2024 after initially having been planned for 2022. The delay was due to travel infrastructure needing time to update. You will be able to apply for the travel document online when the scheme launches properly next year and needs to be presented on arrival at your travel destination.
You can be denied a ETIAS if you provide the wrong information on your application, are travelling from an area which could be a danger to public health and if you are a convicted criminal or on a travel watchlist. During the application process you will be asked to answer questions about your employment, address, previous trips and medical records.
European countries requiring ETIAS
European countries requiring ETIAS
These 30 European countries require visa-exempt travellers to have an ETIAS travel authorisation.
Who needs an ETIAS travel authorisation
Nationals of any of these visa-exemptEN••• countries need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorisation.
