Starting next year, U.S. passport holders traveling to Europe will be required to apply for authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) before traveling. Learn more about the program, which countries Americans will need to have an ETIAS authorization to travel to, and how to apply

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According to forecasts, as early as 2025, before planning a trip to Europe, Americans will need to obtain an entry permit through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

The new rules were supposed to enter into force in 2024, but the implementation of the system was postponed. And although the exact launch date is still unknown, it is already clear that the new requirement will affect citizens of 60 countries of the world who travel to the EU under the visa-free system, including Americans.

What changes await travelers? We will find out further.

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization that is attached to a traveler's passport. Based on it, foreigners receive the right to a short-term trip to Europe (up to 90 days in any 180-day period).

ETIAS is not a visa in the traditional sense, travelers only need to complete a quick online application and receive approval by email. In comparison, applicants have to wait weeks for a Schengen visa.

It is worth noting that the issued ETIAS is not a 100% guarantee that the traveler will be allowed to cross the border. When passing through border control, they will still check whether a foreigner meets the requirements for entry.

Reasons for implementing ETIAS

Similar to the US Electronic Travel Authorization System (ESTA), which has been in operation since 2009, ETIAS also aims to improve security and ease the entry process for travelers. Changes to European policy have been made to better track those entering and leaving EU countries amid the growing threat of terrorism and illegal immigration.

The system will be able to detect whether a person poses a threat to the security of Schengen countries even before he crosses the border.

To which countries will Americans need an ETIAS permit to travel?

An ETIAS permit will be required to enter the following categories of European countries:

- 27 Schengen member countries, including some of the most popular destinations such as France, Germany, Italy and more.

- Member countries of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA): Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.

- Future members of the Schengen zone: Bulgaria, Cyprus.

- European microstates: Andorra and Monaco.

How to apply for ETIAS?

To apply for ETIAS, you can fill in the form on the official ETIAS website or use the mobile application. They will become operational in 2025, when the system comes into force.

It is planned that filling out the questionnaire and obtaining a permit will take no more than 10 minutes.

The questionnaire data will include the following information: full name, date and place of birth, citizenship information, residential address, email address and phone number, education and work experience, the first EU country to which you plan to enter, information about your state of health, availability criminal records, family ties with EU citizens, etc.

US passport holders planning to travel to Europe must apply for ETIAS at least 96 hours before departure.

How much will the ETIAS registration cost?

After filling out the application data, you will need to pay a fee. ETIAS is planned to cost 7 euros ($7.53) for each adult over the age of 18. Children will not have to pay any fees.

The commission can be paid by debit or credit card directly on the site.

How to avoid fraud when registering in the ETIAS system?

The European Union authorities have already issued a warning to citizens of non-EU countries about possible fraudulent websites offering ETIAS visas. As of now, 60 unofficial sites have been found in the network. According to the EU border control agency, fraudsters create copies of websites and illegally charge users additional fees. Therefore, be careful, enter personal information only on the official ETIAS website.

How long will the ETIAS permit be valid?

An ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. It is reusable, that is, it will be necessary to pay 7 euros only once.

We talked about ETIAS in more detail earlier.

Igor Usyk - Head of Migration department at VisitWorld

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