Heading to the EU? Be aware of a new €7 fee coming into effect soon. What’s behind this change, and how will it impact Brits?
New Travel Regulations
Travelling changes and rules will soon apply to Brits looking to enjoy the summer holidays in the EU. The European Travel Information and Authorisation Scheme (ETIAS) is said to launch soon and will kick off with UK travellers having to dock out some more cash.
What is the ETIAS?
The ETIAS is a new travel legislation that’s set to commence by next summer. The concept is that non-EU visa holders can use their ETIAS authorisation to move freely between EU countries.
Valid for Three Years
At the cost of €7, the ETIAS authorisation will be linked to the traveller’s passport and must be presented whenever the person travels to EU countries. According to the European Union website, ETIAS is valid for three years before reapplication is needed.
Early Applications
The Mirror reported that the ETIAS is supposed to be fully launched by mid-2025.
It Isn’t Launching This Year
Despite the estimated launch time, non-EU nationals are advised to apply early from the end of 2024, despite the scheme only kicking off later next year.
Schengen Territories Also Require ETIAS
The ETIAS will be required when travelling to Schengen territories like Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, Poland, Spain, Malta, the Netherlands, and Slovenia.
Plans Set Since 2022
According to reports, the scheme has already been a concept, and the preparation for system implementations has also been underway since 2022.
Post-Brexit Delays
As a result of EU regulations and technology requirements, ETIAS is delayed and will, however, only launch in 2025.
EES Was Also Delayed
Other post-Brexit travel implementations, like the Entry/Exit System (EES), also faced a few delays before being ready for the proposed date. The EES was set to launch in 2022 as well but will only begin in November this year.
EES and ETIAS
Both systems were implemented post-Brexit and are both used when travelling to the EU. EES uses biometrics, while the ETIAS requires a screening procedure and is linked to the travellers passport.
Reapplication With New Passport
For persons whose passports have already expired, a new ETIAS application should be completed along with the passport to ensure smooth travelling.
Who Needs the Visa Waiver?
According to reports, all persons travelling from the UK between the ages of 18 and 70 need to apply.
Application Delay Possibilities
Early applications are crucial because of possible delays in receiving the waiver. There is a process, and depending on whether or not additional documentation or details are required, the process might take 14 to 30 days.
Sometimes, an Interview Is Required
For the most part, the results are available minutes after applying. Still, the outcomes can take about four days, according to the European Union. Communication will be received if there are delays or the applicant needs to come for an interview.
Not All Applications Are Approved
After applying, the applicant will receive a confirmation email. According to the European Union, not everyone’s ETIAS application is guaranteed for approval.
The Right to Appeal Rejection
Rejected ETIAS applications will receive details in the event of a rejection. As per the EU, applicants can appeal the rejection notice.
Applying for Others
According to the European Union, applications for someone else are possible under special circumstances. Those applying on behalf of someone else may do so for a minor or when acting in a legal guardian capacity.
Commercial Intermediaries Can Also Apply
The EU also notes that the approved authorisation documentation must be carried with the passenger at all times. Third parties and commercial legal intermediaries are allowed to apply on behalf of another individual.
Don’t Forget Documentation
Another very important aspect to note, according to the EU, is travellers must make sure that they travel with the required authorisation documentation. Without it, the individual can be denied boarding a flight, ship, or bus.
Apply Sooner Than Later
If you are looking to make your way to an EU country or one of the Schengen territories, don’t forget to apply for the visa waiver sooner than later. More information can be found on the official EU website.
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