As the world gradually recovers from the global pandemic, international travel is slowly resuming, and Singaporeans are eager to explore the beautiful destinations in Europe once again. However, it is essential to stay informed about the latest travel requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
From 2024, Singaporeans traveling to popular European countries such as France, Italy, and Spain will need to apply for an additional travel document.
Singaporean travellers will be required to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before visiting the countries within the Schengen Area. There are currently 27 countries in the Schengen Area, including Belgium, Iceland and the Netherlands; the United Kingdom is not included. Three other non-Schengen countries – Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania – will also implement the Etias.
Click here for full list of countries requiring ETIAS!
ETIAS is an electronic travel authorisation system implemented by the European Union (EU) to enhance security and streamline the entry process for travelers from visa-exempt countries.
The travel authorization system will:
Image from schengenvisainfo.com
Implementation of ETIAS
Image from schengenvisainfo.com
Prior to departure, Singaporeans will have to complete an online application, providing personal information, passport details, travel itinerary, and answering security-related questions. The aim of this requirement is to identify any potential security risks and ensure the safety of both visitors and the EU member states.
How Long Does It Take to Fill Up ETIAS Application
The ETIAS application is expected to only take about 10 minutes to fill. After 10 minutes, you will receive a notification that your session has timed out and you might be asked to start from the beginning. To avoid this, try to go through the application carefully and save your information.
Depending on your country of citizenship, it will present you with several fields to fill. You must give the following information:
- Biometric information such as:
- First name
- Last name
- Last name at birth
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Information regarding your citizenship
- Address
- Email and phone number
- Education and work experience
- First EU country you intend to visit
- Background and eligibility questions will inquire about your medical condition, travel to war countries or places where you were deported or rejected, as well as criminal records
- For minors, the legal guardian must apply for ETIAS
- For family members of EU citizens from other countries, you must submit proof of relationship, residence card, and other background information
Application Submission
When you complete the application, you must pay and submit the fee. Travellers between the age of 18 to 70 would need to pay 7 euros (S$10) for the document, which is otherwise free for those outside this age range.
The system will do the following:
- Check if the information you gave was correct
- Check your eligibility
- Check your risk factors
Within 96 hours of submission, applicants will receive notification as to whether their Etias application has been accepted, rejected, or needs manual processing.
An explanation will be provided if an applicant’s Etias application got rejected, together with details on the specific EU member state that rendered the judgment. Additionally, the applicant will be given a chance to appeal.
ETIAS Validity
If approved, the ETIAS will be valid for three years or until the registered travel document’s validity expires, whichever comes first. The system will evaluate your information and risk before deciding whether to provide you the first or second validity period.
Summary of ETIAS Process
Image from schengenvisainfo.com
It is crucial for Singaporeans to plan ahead and familiarise themselves with the ETIAS application process, including the required documentation and fees. Applying for ETIAS well in advance of the intended travel dates will help avoid any last-minute complications and ensure a smooth journey.
