The new travel requirement for the majority of European nations, initially slated to take effect in 2024, has been postponed yet again to 2025.
This means travellers do not have to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before visiting the countries within the Schengen Area, until 2025. 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.
The ETIAS is not a visa – it’s a system for visitors from countries who don’t require visas to enter Europe, to preregister their visits. Those who currently need visas to enter will still need to apply.
What is the ETIAS for?
The ETIAS was designed as a security measure to manage and track visitors from countries who do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Zone. Amidst rising global security concerns, the ETIAS is seen as a necessary step in ensuring the safety of both travellers and residents within the EU.
New Travel Requirement Delay until 2025
The delay to 2025 follows the establishment of Europe’s new tech-driven Entry/Exit System (EES). The EES, designed to modernise and strengthen border control procedures across the EU, serves as the foundation on which the ETIAS will be built.
Despite the delay, it is clear that the new requirements will eventually become a reality for travellers to Europe. As such, potential visitors are encouraged to stay updated on the developments and prepare for these changes to ensure a smooth transition when the time comes.
For more information on how the ETIAS works, click here.
