A new travel regulation is set to affect British travellers heading to Europe next summer, requiring a €7 authorisation fee.
This change is part of the broader initiative by the EU to enhance border security and streamline entry processes through the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias).
British citizens aiming to visit continental Europe might soon face a new financial requirement. As reports from Brussels confirm, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias) is on track for a spring launch. This system mandates a €7 fee, akin to the US Esta, for non-EU visitors. It is intended to enhance security while adding a bureaucratic layer for travellers.
The Entry/Exit System (EES), another component of the EU’s security initiative, is scheduled for introduction on November 10. This system is designed to document the entry and exit of non-EU nationals more comprehensively. Ylva Johansson, EU home affairs commissioner, clarified that these measures aim to curb irregular migration and enhance border security through biometric checks, phasing out manual passport stamping.
Johansson articulates the goal of these systems: ensuring comprehensive awareness of third-country nationals entering the Schengen Area. By utilising biometric data such as photos and fingerprints, these measures enhance detection of forged passports used by criminals or spies. Digital verification processes will replace outdated methods, potentially accelerating border procedures while intensifying security checks. However, this comes at the cost of added bureaucracy for genuine travellers.
For UK travellers, this means a shift in pre-travel preparations. There will be an online or app-based application process to secure the Etias authorisation. Applications will undergo automatic checks against various EU security databases, with most decisions rendered swiftly. Although the majority of requests are approved within minutes, some may require up to 72 hours, urging complex cases to allow a 30-day lead time. The €7 charge applies to those aged 18 to 70.
While the Etias rollout has been subjected to previous delays, there is an expectation it could finally be operational by mid-2025. Britons are advised to have this authorisation by the school holiday in May, certainly by summer. The fee is waived for those under 18 or over 70, offering some relief for families and seniors. Johansson highlighted the significance, noting over 700 million tourists visited Europe last year, showcasing the importance of streamlined processes.
As these systems come into effect, they represent a transformative shift in how the EU handles external travel. The combined implementation of EES and Etias underscores a balance between security enhancement and travel facilitation. While Britons may adapt to these procedural adjustments, the overarching goal remains to fortify EU borders against threats while minimising impacts on tourism and business travel. The changes are indicative of a broader trend towards digitisation in border management.
The forthcoming travel authorisation requirement marks a significant procedural change for British visitors to Europe.
It aligns with the EU’s goals of increased security and efficient border management, although it introduces additional steps for travellers.
