It has finally arrived: the end of free travel to European Union .
The European Commission has announced the launch of its long-awaited entry scheme for travel to Schengen countries, the ETIAS which will be released in May 2023.
While the ETIAS is not the same as a visa – it is faster, done online and does not require biometric information – there is still a procedure and cost to obtain it, just like the US scheme, the IT IS the mandatory travel authorization for foreign travelers arriving in the country.
ETIAS, which stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System, had already been scheduled to launch in late 2022.
EU travelers are exempt and have freedom of movement across the bloc, allowing them to spend as much time as they like in many countries. EU residents will also be exempt.
But for everyone who enters the bloc from a country that did not previously require a visa, ETIAS will be mandatory. The measure affects about 60 countries, including Brazil, the United States and the United Kingdom, which lost freedom of movement after Brexit. Nothing changes for those who previously needed a visa to enter.
The application process will be through a “largely automated IT system” with approval granted “within minutes” for about 95% of applicants, according to a new memorandum issued by the EU.
The maximum time required for approval can be up to one month in “very exceptional cases”. Any person whose request is denied will have the right to appeal.
The ETIAS authorization is valid for an unlimited number of entries over three years. However, holders must respect immigration and stay rules. Currently, some nationalities cannot stay more than 90 days in the block in its entirety, for each period of 180 days.
The cost: €7 (about R$38) for those aged between 18 and 70. It’s not yet clear whether others will have a reduced rate or be able to sign up for free.
The start date for registration has not yet been announced.
Source: CNN Brasil
