In a significant policy update, the United Kingdom's citizens are set to encounter a new travel requirement when visiting a selection of 30 European nations. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) permit, which will incur a cost of £6, is a notable change in travel protocol for Britons. Initially slated for introduction in autumn 2024, the implementation of this permit has been rescheduled to May 2025. This delay is attributed to unforeseen technical challenges that have arisen during the development phase.

Coinciding with the introduction of the ETIAS permit is the launch of the European Union's innovative digital border system, expected in the autumn of 2024. This advanced system mandates the collection of biometric data—specifically, fingerprints and facial scans—from British travelers upon their first entry into any of the participating countries. This directive is part of the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES), aiming to streamline border processes while enhancing security measures. The collected biometric data will facilitate quicker processing at border points for subsequent visits, with the added feature of recording instances of entry refusal.

Exemptions for Specific Demographics

It is important to note that the ETIAS permit will be a universal requirement for all travelers from the UK to these European destinations. However, the EU has made exceptions for certain demographics; individuals over the age of 70 and children will be exempt from the permit fee.

In an official statement, the EU Council elucidated the timelines for these new systems. According to their revised roadmap, the EES is on track to become operational in the autumn of 2024, followed by the ETIAS in the spring of 2025.

ETIAS Application Processing Time

Applicants for the ETIAS permit should be prepared for a processing time that could extend up to 30 days. This duration is due to the comprehensive cross-checking of applicant information against various EU databases and systems. The EU's decision to implement these measures stems from increasing concerns over security, particularly in light of recent issues related to terrorism and migration. The European Commission (EC) has emphasized that these steps are part of its broader objective to ensure a safer and more streamlined travel experience within EU borders.

Countries Where ETIAS Will be Required

The list of countries where the new ETIAS permit will be required encompasses a diverse range of European destinations, including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. These nations, representing a blend of EU member states and associated countries, reflect the EU's commitment to a unified and secure travel environment across its territory.

FAQs

Who is exempt from the ETIAS permit fee?

Individuals over the age of 70 and children are exempt from the ETIAS permit fee.

What is the processing time for an ETIAS application?

The processing time for an ETIAS application can extend up to 30 days.

When will the EES become operational?

The EES is set to become operational in the autumn of 2024.