Frequently Asked Questions
Below is a list of common questions and answers regarding the ETIAS program.
Do not hesitate to contact us if you cannot find the information you need in this ETIAS FAQ.
General ETIAS Questions
What is ETIAS?
The ETIAS travel authorisation is a mandatory entry requirement for visa-exempt individuals visiting any of the 30 European countries. It is directly connected to the traveller’s passport and will remain valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever happens first. You must also get a new ETIAS travel authorisation if you obtain a new passport. Having an active ETIAS allows for multiple visits to these European countries, with short stays typically limited to 90 days within every 180 days.
Who needs to apply for an ETIAS?
Effective May 2025, non-visa required that visitors to the Schengen Area must secure an ETIAS, a speedy electronic entry authorisation, before travelling to any EU or Schengen country. This online process takes only minutes and is not considered a visa prerequisite.
How do I apply for an ETIAS?
The online completion of the ETIAS authorisation form entails a brief questionnaire. To complete the application, fill in the appropriate fields of the form with the necessary information. This will include the following sections:
– Essential information about oneself
– Contact information
– Details regarding your passport
– Inquiries regarding travel, well-being, and safety
The necessary personal details will consist of:
– Name
– Date of birth
– Nationality
The email address provided will serve as the primary contact information. It is crucial, as all communication regarding your ETIAS application and approval will be sent to this email.
After filling out the ETIAS form, a small processing fee will be required. You can then proceed to submit your application online.
When do I need to apply for an ETIAS?
For a smoother travel experience, it is recommended to submit the ETIAS form for Europe well in advance of your trip. With a validity of 3 years upon approval, registering a month or more prior to your departure date is fine. However, travellers are advised to only apply within 3 days of their journey to the Schengen Area.
How long is an ETIAS valid for?
The ETIAS travel authorisation is valid for either three years or until the expiration of your chosen travel document, whichever occurs first. This enables short-term stays in European countries that require an ETIAS for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.
How many times can I enter the Schengen Zone with an ETIAS?
Getting a new passport means obtaining a new ETIAS travel authorisation. This document allows unlimited entry into the specified European countries within the designated time frame of short-term stays, typically 90 days out of 180 days.
Do I need to apply for a separate ETIAS for each Schengen country I visit?
No, your ETIAS travel authorisation is only valid for a maximum of three years or until your passport’s expiration date, depending on which comes first.
What documents do I need to apply for an ETIAS?
Before submitting your application, you must possess the documents listed below:
– A valid passport is required upon arrival in Europe.
– A machine-readable section must be included on the biographic details page of your passport for it to be considered a Machine machine-readable passport.
Your passport may need to be electronic with the designated sign or chip, although this is optional.
How long does it take to get an ETIAS?
Completing the application is a brief and hassle-free task. While the majority of applicants will receive their ETIAS travel permit within minutes, it may take up to 30 days in certain circumstances. For this reason, applying well before your trip is recommended to avoid any potential complications.
What happens if my ETIAS application is denied?
In the event of a rejected ETIAS application, entry into the EU is not permitted. However, there are three possible courses of action available to you. One option is to appeal the decision, which involves a manual procedure that may entail an interview at an EU member consulate.
What do I need to do when I arrive at the Schengen border?
The Schengen area follows unified regulations for visas and border security, eliminating internal border checks. However, certain countries within the Schengen area may request that you register with local officials soon after arrival, mainly if you are staying in private lodgings.
What happens if I overstay my ETIAS?
If a person overstays their visa, they may face deportation from the country. In other words, the government can require them to leave. Additionally, there may also be a travel ban imposed, prohibiting them from re-entering for a certain period of time.
Can I apply for an ETIAS at a Schengen embassy or consulate?
The complete ETIAS application procedure can be completed entirely online, eliminating the need to visit a European embassy or consulate for paperwork. To travel visa-free to any country in the Schengen Area, individuals only need to register with the ETIAS platform.
Can I apply for an ETIAS on behalf of someone else?
ETIAS travel authorisation can be applied for by either submitting an individual application or authorising someone else, such as a friend, family member, or travel agency, to do so on your behalf. To complete the process, you will need to possess a valid travel document and pay a fee of EUR 7.
What if I lose my passport or ETIAS authorization?
If your authorisation is revoked due to circumstances such as misplacing your travel papers, you can then submit a new ETIAS application upon obtaining a new passport or comparable document.
Can I apply for an ETIAS if I have a criminal record?
For those seeking to obtain an ETIAS for a brief visit to Europe, having a history of serious criminal activity may result in their application being denied. However, individuals with minor infractions can typically expect their ETIAS application to be approved and to be granted access to the 26 countries that require an ETIAS.
Can I apply for an ETIAS if I am a minor?
Indeed, all individuals from visa-free countries, regardless of their age, are required to have an ETIAS when travelling to the Schengen Zone. This includes children, infants, and teens. It is worth noting that those under 18 years old will not incur any application fees for their ETIAS.
Applying for an ETIAS
How do I apply for an ETIAS?
The online completion of the ETIAS authorisation form entails a brief questionnaire. To complete the application, fill in the appropriate fields of the form with the necessary information. This will include the following sections:
– Essential information about oneself
– Contact information
– Details regarding your passport
– Inquiries regarding travel, well-being, and safety
The necessary personal details will consist of:
– Name
– Date of birth
– Nationality
The email address provided will serve as the primary contact information. It is crucial, as all communication regarding your ETIAS application and approval will be sent to this email.
After filling out the ETIAS form, a small processing fee will be required. You can then proceed to submit your application online.
Who needs to apply for an ETIAS?
Effective May 2025, non-visa required that visitors to the Schengen Area must secure an ETIAS, a speedy electronic entry authorisation, before travelling to any EU or Schengen country. This online process takes only minutes and is not considered a visa prerequisite.
When do I need to apply for an ETIAS?
For a smoother travel experience, it is recommended to submit the ETIAS form for Europe well in advance of your trip. With a validity of 3 years upon approval, registering a month or more prior to your departure date is fine. However, travellers are advised to only apply within 3 days of their journey to the Schengen Area.
Do I need to apply for a separate ETIAS for each Schengen country I visit?
No, your ETIAS travel authorisation is only valid for a maximum of three years or until your passport’s expiration date, depending on which comes first.
Can I apply for an ETIAS at a Schengen embassy or consulate?
The complete ETIAS application procedure can be completed entirely online, eliminating the need to visit a European embassy or consulate for paperwork. To travel visa-free to any country in the Schengen Area, individuals only need to register with the ETIAS platform.
Can I apply for an ETIAS on behalf of someone else?
ETIAS travel authorisation can be applied for by either submitting an individual application or authorising someone else, such as a friend, family member, or travel agency, to do so on your behalf. To complete the process, you will need to possess a valid travel document and pay a fee of EUR 7.
Can I apply for an ETIAS if I am a minor?
Indeed, all individuals from visa-free countries, regardless of their age, are required to have an ETIAS when travelling to the Schengen Zone. This includes children, infants, and teens. It is worth noting that those under 18 years old will not incur any application fees for their ETIAS.
Refusals, Appeals and Cancellations
Can I apply for an ETIAS if I have a criminal record?
For those seeking to obtain an ETIAS for a brief visit to Europe, having a history of serious criminal activity may result in their application being denied. However, individuals with minor infractions can typically expect their ETIAS application to be approved and to be granted access to the 26 countries that require an ETIAS.
What happens if my ETIAS application is denied?
In the event of a rejected ETIAS application, entry into the EU is not permitted. However, there are three possible courses of action available to you. One option is to appeal the decision, which involves a manual procedure that may entail an interview at an EU member consulate.
Renewal and Validity
How long is an ETIAS valid for?
The ETIAS travel authorisation is valid for either three years or until the expiration of your chosen travel document, whichever occurs first. This enables short-term stays in European countries that require an ETIAS for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period.