Travel Requirements

ETIAS - NEW REQUIREMENT TO ENTER EUROPE

EFFECTIVE NOVEMBER 2023

What is ETIAS?

ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. The intention of forming the system was to improve the security of EU member states within the Schengen region by capturing data on travellers that currently visit the area without a visa.

The ETIAS will pre-screen travellers from "third-countries", who are citizens from countries not needing a Schengen Visa. The screening would pertain to terrorism or migration related risks. The objective is to identify individuals who pose security threats before they are able to travel to the Schengen area.

ETIAS is not a visa, it is a visa waiver, similar to the U.S. ESTA and Canadian eTA. Travelers currently visiting European Member countries visa-free, will require an ETIAS from November 2023 onwards. Passport holders of the EU single market are exempt from ETIAS. 

ETIAS Application

ETIAS is only relevant to travellers who travel visa-free to EU member states. The application process is aimed at taking approximately 10 minutes or less. The website processing ETIAS applications will support mobile, desktop and mobile devices. For more information please visit www.etias.com

More information on the ETIAS application form can be found here: https://etias.com/articles/what-will-be-on-the-etias-application-form

Payment

The ETIAS fee charged on applications for travellers between the ages of 18 and 70 is €7. There is no ETIAS fee for travellers under the age of 18, or over the age of 70. Every traveller, regardless of their age, will require an approved ETIAS prior to their arrival to the Schengen area.

Official Website: www.etias.com

COVID INFORMATION

Due to the constant update of border requirements and restrictions, before traveling, you should consult the requirements directly with public organisms and authorities (Consulates/Air Lines).

According to an agreement of the European Union, the vaccination certificate expires 9 months after the second dose (this applies to most countries)

Websites with useful information
https://reopen.europa.eu/es/ (EU Platform)
https://www.iatatravelcentre.com/world.php
https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions?language=es-XL