- Overview
- ETIAS is a travel security program for visa-exempt countries entering Europe
- System will be mandatory for visa-required travelers from 2025
- ETIAS is not a visa but an electronic visa waiver
- Requirements and Eligibility
- Applicants must complete online form with personal and travel details
- Application fee is 7 euros, payable via debit/credit card
- System will be valid for three consecutive years
- Applicants must provide criminal history and health information
- Implementation
- 180-day grace period before mandatory implementation
- Will apply to 27 Schengen Area countries
- Includes Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania as non-Schengen participants
- Will require ETIAS for visa-exempt third-country nationals
- Purpose
- Creates unified border security system between European countries
- Ensures passport-free travel between Schengen Area members
- Monitors potential security, health, and migration risks
- Promotes stronger European border control