What is the ETIAS system?

ETIAS system concept:

The European Travel Information and Authorization System, known as ETIAS, is an electronic system set up by the Schengen Area countries as an additional security measure to protect the area. This system aims to ensure security and safety and manage the flow of visitors. The system applies to all passport holders who are entitled to enter the Schengen area without the need to obtain a prior visa.

Via the ETIAS system or the new ETIAS travel document for entering Europe , all travelers with the right to enter EU countries without a visa will be required to submit an electronic application for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETIA). The permit will be issued immediately and is valid for three years or until the passport expires. This aims to facilitate the travel process and provide an improved security experience for visitors.

This system includes more than 60 countries whose citizens can enter the Schengen area without the need to obtain a prior visa. For example, citizens of the United States, Canada, Singapore, Japan, and countries in the Caribbean will need to obtain an ETIAS permit before traveling to the Schengen Area, and this system will be implemented immediately upon rollout.

ETIAS launch date:

The system was scheduled to become operational during mid-2023, but the start date has been postponed until the first half of 2024.

Reason for creating ETIAS:

The ETIAS system was created with the aim of enhancing security within the European Union area and the Schengen countries. This system collects specific information about travelers with the aim of maintaining the safety of citizens, residents and visitors in this area, and preventing the entry of anyone who poses a security or national threat.

What are the advantages associated with ETIAS?

ETIAS contributes to achieving multiple benefits, including:

1. Simplifying the visa process: The ETIAS system reduces the complexity of visa application procedures, making the process faster and easier.

2. Strengthening border management: It helps improve border management of European Union countries, which enhances security and control.

3. Reducing crime and terrorism: It contributes to discovering and reducing crime rates and terrorist activities by reviewing and examining information about travelers.

4. Preventing illegal immigration: It contributes to obstructing illegal immigration attempts by achieving greater entry control.

5. Strengthening the visa-free policy: It contributes to strengthening the visa-free policy in the European Union, making it easier for travelers to enter the region.

Simply put, ETIAS improves the EU travel experience by simplifying procedures and enhancing security.

The difference between ETIAS and Schengen visa:

ETIAS is a travel permit, not a visa, and there are differences between it and a Schengen visa in the following points:

1. Methods of obtaining: The ETIAS permit cannot be obtained from consulates or embassies, while the Schengen visa requires application through consulates.

2. Biometric data: The ETIAS permit does not require you to provide biometric data such as fingerprints, while the Schengen visa may require that.

3. Financial fees: The ETIAS permit application fee is much lower than the cost of a Schengen visa (approximately 7 euros), and in addition, no financial information is required to obtain an ETIAS permit.

In summary, the ETIAS permit offers a simplified and less expensive approach to traveling to the Schengen Area compared to a Schengen visa.

Will ETIAS have an impact on Caribbean passport holders?

No, ETIAS will not have an impact on the classification or ranking of Caribbean passports. An ETIAS permit will be required from all countries whose citizens are allowed to travel to the Schengen Area without a visa, including the United States of America, the United Arab Emirates and more than 60 other countries, including Caribbean countries such as Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dominica and others.