The European Travel Information and Authorization System (Etias) will operate similarly to that of the United States, a travel authorization system for foreigners who can enter the country without a visa. In this system, travelers register, pay a fee of $14, receive authorization to travel, and can stay for 90 days.
Like the North American version, the goal of Etias is to inform governments who the travelers crossing the borders are and, thus, increase the bloc’s security and restrict illegal immigration.
All citizens from the 62 countries that can currently travel to Europe without a visa will need to apply for Etias. Citizens with a passport from any country that is part of the European Union will not need Etias to travel and have freedom of movement throughout the bloc for as long as they wish. Brazil and the United States are on the list of countries that fall under the new rules.
The application process will be through a highly automated IT system. That is, it will be faster, entirely done online, and does not require biometric information. According to a memorandum issued by the EU, approval should be granted “in minutes” for most applicants. Anyone whose application is denied will have the right to appeal.
However, there is a cost to obtain it: €7 for those aged between 18 and 70. It is still unclear if others will have a reduced fee or will be able to apply for free.
The Etias authorization will be valid for an unlimited number of entries over three years. This means you can travel as many times as you want to the European Union during the validity period of your Etias, without having to re-register and pay the fee again.
However, holders must comply with immigration rules and “overstay” regulations. Currently, travelers who do not need a visa cannot stay more than 90 days in the bloc in total, for each 180-day period.
The Etias is expected to come into effect in May next year, but there is still no exact date for this to happen.