Europe has announced the introduction of a European visa waiver program for international travelers. This is the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System). Scheduled to come into force in 2027, this system will apply to travelers from Schengen visa-exempt countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom.
Its aim is to strengthen the security of European borders, while facilitating the movement of travellers. The introduction of ETIAS meets a number of conditions: enhanced entry controls, the fight against illegal immigration and crime, and better management of tourist flows within the Schengen area.
Strongly inspired by the American ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), the European ETIAS authorization is in line with the measures taken to reinforce security in Europe.
ETIAS requirements
- Passengers concerned
- Nationals of over 60 Schengen visa-exempt countries.
- Tourist, business, medical or transit stays.
- Application procedure
- Online form available on the official ETIAS website.
- Personal information, valid biometric passport, contact details and reason for trip.
- Payment of a €20 launch fee, free for under-18s and over-70s.
- Deadlines and validity
- Response usually within minutes (maximum 96 hours).
- The ETIAS authorization is valid for 3 years, or until the passport expires.
- Allows multiple entries into the Schengen area.
Difference between ETIAS and Schengen visa
The ETIAS is a simple electronic authorization for visa-exempt travelers. The Schengen Visa is a compulsory document for nationals subject to prior authorization. The two are not interchangeable.