Introduction
Obtaining a European or Schengen visa for Indians has always been a challenging task. While citizens of many countries, including the USA and UK, enjoy visa-free access to Europe, Indians have had to go through a complex visa application process. However, change is on the horizon as the European Union plans to implement a new travel authorization system known as the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This system will require countries that currently have visa-free entry to Europe to apply for an authorized permit. While different from a visa, this permit will become a mandatory requirement and will only be granted after the completion of necessary security clearance procedures.
What is ETIAS?
The official website for ETIAS is already up and running, and starting in 2024, citizens from over 60 visa-exempt countries will have to apply for travel authorization before entering 30 European countries. These countries have been divided into four categories: Schengen members, European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, future Schengen members, and European microstates. Schengen members include countries such as Spain, France, and Italy. EFTA countries comprise Iceland, Norway, and Switzerland. Future Schengen members include Bulgaria and Cyprus, while European microstates include Andorra and Monaco.
The proposal for ETIAS was first introduced in 2016 with the aim of enhancing security in the European Union and the larger Schengen area. The system seeks to collate data on travelers who have entered the area without visas or background checks. To achieve this, security checks under ETIAS will involve verifying travelers’ criminal records and collecting their biometric information. Despite the initial plan for implementation, The Independent reports that the introduction of ETIAS has been repeatedly postponed due to the lack of adequate facilities to handle the scale of the system and the considerable time and resources required for security checks at destination airports.
Who needs an ETIAS permit?
Citizens from 60 countries, including the USA, UK, UAE, Canada, Singapore, Malaysia, and Japan, will need to obtain an ETIAS pass. However, even nationals of visa-required countries, such as India, can be exempted from the visa requirement and travel using an ETIAS permit. This exemption is possible for those who are residing in one of the 60 eligible countries and meet specific conditions, such as being a student traveling to Europe for educational purposes or being a refugee.
Individuals with an ETIAS pass will not require a separate Schengen visa. However, those who are ineligible for an ETIAS pass or do not possess one will still need a Schengen visa. It’s worth noting that EU nationals and individuals who hold a residence permit, card, or document issued by any EU country are also exempt from the ETIAS requirement.
ETIAS vs Schengen visa
It’s important to understand that the ETIAS permit is distinct from a visa stamp that is typically affixed to a passport. The entire application process for ETIAS is conducted electronically, and upon approval, travelers will receive their ETIAS pass via email.
Compared to the often complex and time-consuming visa application processes, obtaining an ETIAS pass involves a significantly simplified procedure. Travelers are required to fill out an online form and pay a fee of 7 EUR (approximately Rs 630) if they are between 18 and 70 years old. The form covers various aspects, including travel-related information, biographical details, and security-related questions. Typically, applications are processed within minutes, although in exceptional cases, they may take up to four days for approval. Upon arrival at the entry point, travelers will be subject to a security check, which will ultimately determine their final approval for entry into Europe.
Unlike a Schengen visa or other visas for European Union countries, the ETIAS travel authorization allows for unlimited entries during its validity period. The permit itself remains valid for three years, allowing travelers to visit Europe for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.