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The news that it will become mandatory for U.S. passport holders starting in 2024 has made Americans think a little differently about future travel to European destinations. But now EU authorities have postponed the launch of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) until spring 2025.
SchengenVisaInfo.com, a website specializing in the world’s largest visa-free zone where 27 European countries have abolished internal borders known as the Schengen Area, was the first to say that EU officials have confirmed that ETIAS will not become operational until May 2025. Reported. The implementation of the associated entry/exit system (EES) has been delayed and will need to be operational before the introduction of ETIAS. ”
European Union officials did not immediately respond to ABC News’ requests for comment.
What you need to know about ETIAS for US travelers
If you have previously traveled to Europe without a visa, you will need to apply for permission through ETIAS before visiting.
Andrea Ronchini/NurPhoto via Shutterstock
Tourists hold up umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun in the Colosseum district on July 19, 2023, during a heatwave that reaches 40 degrees Celsius in Rome.
According to the Henry Passport Index, American travelers currently have visa-free access to 184 destinations around the world. Additionally, the U.S. passport currently ranks number 8 among passports in possession, but that could change if the European Union adds new documentation requirements for U.S. visitors.
The application form is available on the official ETIAS website and mobile application, and the fee is 7 EUR or 7.79 USD. All communications will be via email.
Once travel is approved, the approval allows the visitor to stay in a European country that requires an ETIAS for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, and the traveler must have a valid ETIAS for the entire duration of their stay. there is.
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According to ETIAS, most applications should be processed within minutes, but those that take longer may receive a decision within four days and up to 14 days if the applicant is required to provide additional documentation. You will be notified.
The European Union encourages travelers to apply for ETIAS authorization “well in advance of their travel plans.”
Confirmation of your application submission will be sent via email with a unique number for future reference.
Jeff Blackler/Shutterstock, File
In this undated file photo, a tourist visa is stamped on a passport.
After receiving the ETIAS travel authorization, travelers must ensure that their name, passport number, and other information are correct. If you make a mistake, you will not be able to cross the border.
If your application is denied, the email will include the reason for the decision and information on how to appeal.
According to the EU, ETIAS travel authorizations are valid for three years or until the expiration date of the travel document used to apply, whichever comes first.
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ETIAS approval is tied to a travel document, such as a U.S. passport, and both documents are required to board a plane, bus, or boat to enter European countries that require an ETIAS.
Similar to passport border requirements, ETIAS authorization does not guarantee automatic entry rights. According to the EU, “border guards will check whether the entry conditions are met” and those who do not meet the conditions “will be refused entry.”
Click here for more information on the process from the European Union.
An earlier version of this story was first published on July 21, 2023.
