ETIAS: Everything You Need to Know to Travel to Europe

Starting in 2025, it will be a mandatory entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals who wish to travel to Europe to obtain prior authorization, called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System).

This new requirement aims to strengthen the security of the Schengen Area borders by allowing visa-exempt travelers to be pre-screened before entering the European Union (EU). In this article, we will explain everything about ETIAS, including its application process, validity, and impact.

What is ETIAS?

The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is an electronic travel authorization system, similar to the ESTA in the United States and the eTA in Canada. It was created to enhance EU border security by pre-screening visa-exempt travelers who wish to enter the Schengen Area for stays of up to 90 days.

The system will allow European authorities to conduct a preliminary security check, identifying potential threats before the traveler's arrival. This measure aims to reduce risks related to irregular immigration, cross-border crimes, and terrorism.

Important: ETIAS is not a visa but rather an electronic travel authorization. It is mandatory for tourists and short-term travelers, but it does not permit immigration. Those who apply for ETIAS and later attempt to immigrate may face issues, as the provided information clearly indicates that the travel intention is temporary. The system is designed to monitor who enters the Schengen Area, their reasons for travel, and their length of stay. If there are indications that the traveler's intention is to remain illegally, entry may be denied.

Who Needs ETIAS?

All citizens of countries that are currently visa-exempt for entry into the European Union, including Brazil, will need ETIAS. This requirement applies to travel for tourism, business, transit, or short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period).

Who is Exempt from ETIAS?

EU citizens and permanent residents in the EU.
Travelers who already hold a valid Schengen visa.
Holders of diplomatic passports under certain circumstances.
People with dual EU citizenship, as long as they use a valid European passport to travel. For example, if a Brazilian traveler has Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, or any other EU citizenship and presents that valid passport, they will not need to apply for ETIAS.

How to Apply for ETIAS?

The ETIAS application will be done 100% online through the official system website. The process will take only a few minutes and involves the following steps:

Fill out the application form with personal information such as name, date of birth, passport details, and travel plans.
Answer security questions, including criminal history, previous travel records, and potential security risks.
Pay the application fee, which will be €7.
Processing and approval: Once your application is processed, you will receive an email notification with the outcome.
If your application is denied, the email will specify the reasons for the decision and provide information on how to appeal, including the relevant timeframe for filing an appeal.

How Long is ETIAS Valid?

ETIAS will be valid for three years or until the passport used for the application expires, whichever comes first. Within this period, travelers can enter and leave the Schengen Area multiple times, as long as they comply with the 90-day stay limit within a 180-day period.

Countries Requiring ETIAS

ETIAS authorization will be mandatory to travel to the following Schengen Area countries:

European Union countries: Germany, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, and Sweden.
Non-EU countries that are part of the Schengen Area: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, England, and Switzerland.

Consequences of Not Obtaining ETIAS

Once the ETIAS requirement is implemented, travelers without an approved ETIAS will not be allowed to enter the Schengen Area. Airlines and other transportation companies will be required to verify ETIAS authorization before boarding and may deny boarding to passengers without ETIAS.

Beware of Fraudulent Websites

With the introduction of ETIAS, travelers should be cautious of fraudulent websites that mimic the official ETIAS application page to deceive travelers. Some of these websites may charge excessive fees or collect personal data fraudulently.

To avoid scams, always apply only through the official European Union website or reliable sources.

Conclusion

ETIAS represents a significant change for those traveling to Europe, but the process will be simple and accessible. With proper planning and attention to deadlines, your next trip to Europe will remain smooth and hassle-free.

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The information provided is general in nature and does not replace legal consultation. Consult a lawyer and take a preventive approach to legal matters.