Understanding the EES & the New ETIAS System: What Travelers Need to Know

ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization system designed for visa-exempt visitors traveling to the Schengen Area. This area includes Italy and most other EU countries, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

The primary goal of ETIAS is to bolster border security by pre-screening travelers before they set foot in Europe. This system will help identify potential risks, including individuals with a criminal background or those linked to terrorism.

No, you do not need to pre-register for ETIAS or provide fingerprints for each trip. You only need to complete the ETIAS application once on the official website, and it remains valid for three years or until your passport expires. While ETIAS does not require fingerprinting, you will need to provide biometric data, including fingerprints, when entering and exiting the Schengen Area as part of the European Entry/Exit System (EES) procedures.

Biometric Data and Personal Information: The EES will store your biometric data (fingerprints and facial images) and personal information (such as your name, date of birth, nationality, etc.) for a period of three years. Retaining data for three years allows authorities to track travel patterns, verify identity, and conduct investigations if necessary. It also helps in preventing fraud and security breaches.

No, you will not need to pay for a visa with ETIAS. ETIAS is not a visa but an electronic travel authorization. There is a fee associated with applying for ETIAS, which is around €7 for applicants. This fee is paid at the time of the application. ETIAS is designed for visa-exempt travelers and allows multiple entries into the Schengen Area during its validity period.

While I try to keep you informed and update this article accordingly, things seem to change so often that my advice is to visit the official website: https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en

The Schengen Area is the world’s largest border-free zone. It covers 27 European nations that have abolished passports and other types of border control at their mutual borders. This allows for free and unrestricted movement of people, goods, and services across member states. Established in 1995, the Schengen Agreement has made travel much simpler for tourists, business travelers, and residents alike. Once you enter the Schengen Area, you can move from one country to another without facing border checks, making it incredibly convenient for those exploring multiple destinations within Europe. For more information on the Schengen Area and its member countries, check out this detailed resource: https://schengen.news/schengen-area-member-countries/