From 2024 it will be necessary for travelers from more than 60 countries without a visa requirement to arrange a travel authorization for their trip to Europe. This consent is processed by the European Travel Information and Consent System (ETIAS). The purpose of ETIAS is to increase security within Europe. It does this by checking visa-free travelers before their trip.
To ensure a safer Europe, the European Union has been setting up a new Entry and Exit System (EES) and a Travel Authorization System (ETIAS) since November 2016.
The new entry/exit system will automatically track every time travelers from countries outside the EU, both those who need a visa for a short stay and those who don't, cross an EU border. This new system replaces the old 'stamp' system.
ETIAS, on the other hand, will focus more on travelers who no visa required to have. Prior to their trip, these travelers will have to undergo a security check and a migration, health and safety risk assessment. The travelers affected by this new process will be required to fill out an online form with personal information and other background information, such as their name, surname, date of birth, nationality, travel document, job, education, etc. Based on this check, it is then determined whether a travel authorization is granted or refused. This travel authorization then forms part of the conditions for a short stay.
The ETIAS network is extensive. It consists of the ETIAS Central Unit, managed by Frontex, ETIAS national units in 30 European countries, and the extensive information system developed and maintained by eu-LISA.
How does it work?
Visa-free travelers who want to travel to Europe will have to deal with ETIAS, both before departure and at the border.
Before departure
Visa-free citizens of more than 60 countries will receive a ETIAS travel authorization must apply before they can travel to one of the 30 European countries.
ETIAS checks the information provided by the applicant with the data in other EU systems, such as the Schengen Information System (sis), Visa Information System (VIS) and Entry/Exit System (EES). If any concerns arise from the application, it will be reviewed by the ETIAS Central Unit and forwarded to the relevant ETIAS National Unit for final decision.
It is expected that most applications (approximately 97%) will be automatically approved within minutes. The remaining 3% is checked manually by the ETIAS Central Unit and the National Units.
Travelers without a valid travel authorization will not be admitted by the carrier (such as an airline, bus or ferry company).
At the border
If a traveler without a visa arrives at the border of one of the 30 European countries where ETIAS is required, the border guards will electronically scan their travel documents and register them in the EES, triggering a request to ETIAS. If the traveler has a valid travel authorization, he can cross the border, provided that all other entry conditions are also met.
More information about what ETIAS means for travelers from visa-free countries can be found on the official website ETIAS website.
The role of Frontex in ETIAS
Frontex is an important player in the ETIAS programme. This organization manages the ETIAS Central Unit, which is available 24/7 to handle ETIAS applications and provide support to travelers and carriers.
The ETIAS Central Unit is also tasked with identifying potential risks, risk indicators and screening rules. These elements are used to rate travelers in areas such as illegal immigration, safety and major health risks. In addition, this unit is concerned with updating the content of the official ETIAS website and ensures that all information in the system is correct and up to date.
Source: European Union
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