It's here: The end of fee-free travel within the European Union.
The EU announced that its long-awaited visa waiver program, ETIAS will be launched in May 2023.
ETIAS isn't the same as a Visa -- it is faster, easier, and doesn't require any biometric information -- but there is still a process and a cost for acquiring it, much like the ESTA in the United States.
ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System. It was originally planned for a debut in late 2022.
EU tourists are exempt from the restrictions and can freely move around the bloc. This allows them to travel as much as they like in many countries. EU residents will also be exempt.
The ETIAS will now be mandatory for anyone entering the bloc from a country that didn't require a visa previously. This move will affect 60 countries, including the UK and the US. They lost freedom of movement following Brexit. For those who had previously required a visa to enter, nothing has changed.
According to a memo from the EU, approval will be granted within minutes for approximately 95% of applicants. In "very rare cases", approval can take up to one month. Any applicant whose application has been denied can appeal.
ETIAS authorization is valid for unlimited entries within three years. Holders must adhere to immigration and overstay rules. Third-party nationals can not stay in the bloc for more than 90 days per 180-day period.
For those between the ages of 18 and 70, it will cost EUR7 (7.35) It is not clear whether other applicants will receive a lower rate or if they will be allowed to apply free of charge. The US charges $21 to obtain an ESTA authorization.
The date of application has yet to be announced.
Top image credit: Artem Kamyshenkov/Adobe Stock
