Though this new program is not a visa, it does require Americans and other global citizens to be granted travel authorization before entering the Schengen area along with Bulgaria, Romania and Cyprus. The Schengen area consists of 27 countries in the European Union. The program is called ETIAS or European Travel Information and Authorization System.
Those who previously traveled to Europe without a visa will now need this authorization to enter the EU for any period of time. This includes the 90 day rule, which allows citizens from countries including the United States, Mexico, Australia and Canada to travel in the Schengen area for just 90 days or less. These travelers will now need to seek travel approval through ETIAS, will affect about 1.4 billion world citizens.Â
According to the New York Times, attempts to implement the authorization have been in effect since 2016 and have been delayed a few times after the program was originally slated to begin in 2020.Â
So how do you apply for ETIAS? Luckily, it’s pretty simple. You can apply online and pay a small fee of around $7 to get going on your next European adventure. Once received your authorization is valid for three years, however, the 90 day rule will remain in effect.Â
During application, you’ll have to input personal information including passport details, phone number, email, address and more. Receiving approval should not take long, but travelers are advised to avoid booking flights, travel on cruise ships to Europe, or accommodation until approved.
The exact date that ETIAS will go into effect has not been anounced, and the application process is not yet available.
UPDATE: ETIAS Launch Delayed unti 2025.
