The United Kingdom has already unveiled its travel authorization system (ETA). European countries have also said they will require travelers to register in advance of their trips. When the application will go live?
Short answer: The launch date is still TBD. The European Commission, which is the EU's executive arm, said earlier this month that both the entry-exit system and travel authorization programs aren’t due to start until “later” in 2025.
Remember, there is a difference between these two protocols. The entry-exit system will come first. That doesn’t require any advance action on your part. But, once you arrive at the border of any of the 29 European countries using the system, you will have your face and fingerprints scanned and logged in a new digital-registration system. These countries are the 29 in the Schengen area, such as Italy, Greece and Spain.
This isn’t optional. If you refuse to have fingerprints scanned or a photo taken, you will be denied entry into the country.
This registration will happen every time travelers cross external borders and will be in lieu of stamping passports. The European Commission has said this step will happen first and will be in place for a few months before ETIAS, the travel authorization, launches.
ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System. This requirement is for travelers who don’t need a visa, meaning many U.S. vacationers headed to the 30 European countries that will require it (the 29 Schengen countries plus Cyprus).
The authorization isn’t a visa. When you apply, you will need to provide your passport information, address, occupation, past criminal convictions and information about prior travel to conflict zones.
Stay tuned, I will keep clients posted on when this will go into effect.
