There will be a new system that is set to go online by 2022 whose main objective is to help with border management for European Union and Schengen Agreement member countries. This is the ETIAS, formally known as the European Travel Information and Authorization System. The system was created to boost border security of EU member states that are in the Schengen Area by means of capturing data on potential visitors that don’t need a visa to enter the region.
The ETIAS can evaluate potential visitors to the EU and Schengen countries, particularly visitors from countries that are not part of the EU or Schengen but still enjoy visa-free facilities. The pre-screening of these travelers was proposed because of the recent unpleasant, violent events l within the borders of EU countries that resulted in the loss of many innocent lives. Learn about the Finland ETIAS and find out how iVisa.com can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ETIAS’ primary goal?
The ETIAS, once it becomes online in the second half of 2022, is expected to gather data on citizens of non-EU, non-Schengen that have visa-exempt status when entering ETIAS member states. The system will then evaluate the data that it has captured along with the reference data from the application form and make a decision on whether the applicant poses a security risk to the EU country that he visits. This is the reason why the European Commission requires all South Korean visitors to Finland to acquire a Finland ETIAS for Citizens of South Korea before their trip. But if the traveler does not need an ETIAS, his next-best option is to get an eVisa.
How many days till I get the authorization once I submit my application?
That depends. But assuming that the application will be approved (which is expected for 99% of applications), the central unit will be able to make a decision within 96 hours of the application. The online application itself takes no more than 10 - 20 minutes to complete. In a few cases, the system may need additional documents to make a decision. These applications may take 4 weeks at the most to approve.
Why did the European Commission authorize the creation of the ETIAS?
It is expected that travelers will use the ETIAS without an inkling why the system was created. Here we will discuss the reasons why the ETIAS was authorized:
- Border efficiency: the ETIAS will make it easier for personnel tasked with border management to inspect arrivals and departures from EU and Schengen member states.
- Security: along with border efficiency, security is probably one of the aspects that the system will focus on, boosting protocols that can minimize potential terrorism and crime.
- Immigration: once border security and management improves, it goes without saying that it will be easier to identify and manage illegal migrants, as well as individuals that abuse visa-exempt privileges.
- Transparency: the EU wants citizens of more countries to be able to enjoy visa-free entry into member states, thereby achieving visa liberalization.
- Convenience: the objective is to minimize time spent on applications, waiting on approval, as well as wait times at the border, effectively simplifying entry.
- Funding: the system is expected to generate revenue through application fees, which will be routed back for use in visa-free entry facilities for visitors.
While the ETIAS may be more convenient than a visa system, not all travelers can use it. If you are not allowed to use the ETIAS, you should apply for an eVisa instead.
Will infants and elderly people need the ETIAS?
All ETIAS-eligible travelers must use the system in order to enter the EU and Schengen states, even the elderly and infants. But those aged below 18 and above 70 years will not be charged for the application.
Is it safe to use iVisa.com for travel document applications?
If you use iVisa.com for travel applications, not only you will get the document that you need every application (courtesy of skilled visa specialists), even a Finland ETIAS for Citizens of South Korea, your customer information will also be protected by security software.
How can I get in touch with the company?
You can call us at +1 (786) 460-2707 or drop us an email at [email protected] for questions or concerns. You can also go to the iVisa.com website to learn more.