There will be a new travel authorization for travelers who wish to enter member states of the European Union or the Schengen Agreement. The system will be in place in the latter part of 2022 and will operate much like the United States ESTA, wherein it will be able to vet certain travelers and track them while they are inside the borders of the member states. It is created for use by citizens of countries who enjoy visa-free entry but are not members of the EU or the Schengen states.
The unpleasant events of the past few years basically forced the European Commission to look for a way to secure the safety of their citizens as well as to mitigate the risk of illegal migration. This became a system that can evaluate the risk presented by travelers to the host nation by doing identity and security checks. The system is expected to boost the security measures being implemented and make the travelers feel safer while they are within the borders of member countries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What we know about the ETIAS?
The new system is called the ETIAS. This is an acronym for European Travel Information and Authorization System, which will be tasked with inspecting the security credentials of inbound travelers when it goes online by the second half of 2022. The ETIAS will be able to access information about eligible travelers from databases that it will be connected to, thereby boosting border security protocols.
Civilian security is the main reason for the creation of the ETIAS, and it is expected to perform very well once it goes online for its pilot test by 2022. When the system fully launches in 2023, then all eligible travelers will be required to get the authorization before they could travel to member countries. If you are not qualified to get one, then you will have to apply for nvisainstead.
Am I required to apply for the ETIAS?
As stated above, only citizens from visa-exempt countries that are not part of the Schengen Area or the European Union are eligible to apply for the ETIAS. The system is designed to make applications very easy and entry even easier for qualified travelers. The ETIAS will conduct a thorough inspection of every applicant’s credentials and make a decision based on the information gathered.
There are 59 countries that are included in the list of nations eligible for the ETIAS, though countries may be added or omitted from the list between now and when the ETIAS starts operating. This list also includes Barbados for the moment, which is the reason why travelers will need an Estonia ETIAS for Citizens of Barbados in the near future. If you are not required to present an ETIAS, then you should instead present a visa.
How long do I need to wait for the authorization?
ETIAS applications typically take no more than 10 minutes, in most cases. The application form needs to be filled out before submission and assessment. In most instances, the decision on whether to approve the application or not usually takes less than 96 hours, but if the application needs additional information, it could take more than 4 weeks for the decision.
How long will the authorization be valid for?
The authorization can last for three years from the date of approval or until the passport used in the application has expired. This is not much different from the validity period of a visa.
How safe is iVisa.com for online applications?
If you are getting a travel authorization, be it an eVisa or an Estonia ETIAS for Citizens of Barbados, the most reliable service to use is iVisa.com since their visa specialist team will get you the authorization you need.
How can I get more information?
You can go to the iVisa.com website to learn more about our service. You may also send us an email at [email protected] or call us at +1 (786) 460-2707 for questions or concerns.