EU's new ETIAS travel scheme postponed to November 2023

The introduction of the EU's new ETIAS travel scheme for non-EU visitors has been delayed by a further six months to November 2023.

ETIAS – European Travel Information and Authorisation System – had initially been due to be operational by the end of 2022, before being pushed back to May 2023. Now, the European Commission states that it expects ETIAS "to be operational by November 2023".

Once operational, visitors from outside the EU, who currently have visa-waiver status, will have to apply and pay for an ESTIA to visit Schengen member countries. For those under the age of 18, or over 70, a fee will not be charged.

In addition whilst Cyprus, Romania, Bulgaria, and Croatia do not yet form part of the Schengen Agreement, ETIAS will be required to travel to these countries.

ETIAS applicants will have to complete an online form covering health, education and criminal convictions. The cost of the permits is €7 and they will last for three years.

Author: NewsinCyprus.com
Added: 04-08-2022