ETIAS: what is it, what are the requirements and how to apply

What is ETIAS? When will ETIAS come into effect? Which countries will need ETIAS? What are the requirements of the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System?  From Gentile Law, expert lawyers in the processing of visas and residence permits in Spain and Europe, we tell you the keys and essential requirements to apply for the ETIAS travel permit. How to apply for this authorisation to travel in Europe?

In the context of the growing need to efficiently manage security and migratory flow in Europe, the European Union has implemented the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). This system, which will come into effect soon, aims to strengthen border controls while ensuring a swift and secure process for travelers.

What is the ETIAS authorization?

What is the ETIAS permit? Is it obligatory to apply for ETIAS to travel in Europe? ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization system applicable to citizens of visa-exempt countries wishing to enter the Schengen Area. This process will be mandatory for those intending to enter the Schengen Area, enabling European authorities to assess the eligibility and security of travelers before their arrival.

Who should apply for an ETIAS permit? All foreigners exempt from obtaining a tourist visa to enter Europe will be required to obtain the ETIAS travel authorization.

For how long can I travel in Europe if I obtain the ETIAS permit? As immigration lawyers, we know that the ETIAS permit allows entry and travel within the European Union for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period and is valid for 3 years.

When will the ETIAS permit for travel in Europe come into effect?

Since when is ETIAS authorisation required for travel in Europe? While initially slated to take effect on January 1, 2024, European authorities have postponed the implementation of this new requirement to 2025.

Which countries require the ETIAS authorization?

Which countries will require ETIAS? From Gentile Law, expert lawyers in processing the ETIAS permit, we tell you which countries will require this authorisation to travel in Europe. Countries requiring the ETIAS authorization for entry will not only include current Schengen Area members but also members of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and European microstates with open borders.

Specifically, the countries requiring the ETIAS authorization for travelers are as follows:

Full Schengen Area Member Countries:

Countries joining the Schengen Area before 2025 (when ETIAS becomes mandatory)

EFTA Member Countries:

 Microstates with Open Borders:

Who needs the ETIAS authorization to travel to Europe?

What are the requirements for travelling in Europe from 2025? Who are obliged to apply for the ETIAS permit? From Gentile Law, lawyers experts in the processing of permits to travel to Europe, we tell you how ETIAS works. The ETIAS authorization will be mandatory for citizens of countries that currently do not require a Schengen visa to enter the common territory. The list of countries whose citizens do not currently need a Schengen visa is extensive.

For Ibero-American countries, citizens of the following countries will need the ETIAS authorization to enter Europe:

It is essential to note that not only Ibero-American countries will require ETIAS; as mentioned, the list of countries is extensive, including but not limited to the following:

*All individuals from the countries mentioned in color must apply for the ETIAS authorization to travel to Europe.

How to apply for ETIAS authorisation?

How to obtain the ETIAS authorization? What are the requirements to apply for the ETIAS permit? As specialists in processing visas and residency for travel to Europe, we explain the keys to obtaining ETIAS authorization. The ETIAS authorization application must be submitted online, providing detailed information about the travelers and the trip. Once the ETIAS authorization application is submitted, European authorities will assess the request and respond via email. The evaluation process is expected to be swift, with a response within 72 hours.

Now that you know all about ETIAS; what it is, requirements and how to apply for it, from Gentile Law, expert lawyers in the processing of visas and residence permits in Spain and Europe such as the ETIAS authorization we recognize the complexity that may arise in the migratory field, especially with the implementation of new systems like ETIAS. Our commitment is to advise our clients at every step of the process, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of requirements and a successful application.