As it goes by its name “European Travel Information Authorization System” abbreviated as ETIAS is an online authorization system in place of visa to the people who want to travel to EU countries, more specifically Schengen Countries for 90 days. It is not a visa, people. It is more of like a visa waiver program. If you want to know more about ETIAS you should check out the FAQs below:

Here are some frequently asked questions on ETIAS:

1. What is ETIAS all about?

It is a visa waiver program very similar to ESTA in the US. The idea of ETIAS was incepted five years ago when there were several security threats to European countries. EU government felt the need for tighter security on the border to keep the check on the people who are traveling visa-free on a centralized database.

2. What is the difference between ETIAS and Schengen visa?

This is a very genuine question, a lot of people can’t figure out the difference between EU and Schengen Zone. EU consists of 28 countries so far and the Schengen Zone consists of 26 countries. All the countries in the EU are not in the Schengen zone (Britain, Ireland) and vice-a-versa(Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein). The Schengen visa is a traditional visa and ETIAS is online authorization system which can be approved within minutes.

3. How long is ETIAS valid?

It will be valid up to 3 years or according to the validity of your documents, it may vary. If your information changes in three years and the guidelines are not met, ETIAS will be annulled or revoked.

4. What if my ETIAS application is denied?

In 95 percent of cases, you will get approval in 20 minutes and it will congratulate you, but if it is denial, it will show the denial message and will tell you the reason for the denial. You can work according to the reason given.

5. Is there a fee for ETIAS application?

Yes, there is a fee of 7 euros for the people of age from 18 to 70.

6. What is the financial benefit for the EU in ETIAS?

According to the fee of ETIAS as 7 euro per person, it is estimated to bring 200 million euro for the year 2021.

7. Who will need to apply for ETIAS?

The people and country who currently do not need Schengen visa will have to apply for ETIAS. The countries which are not in the Schengen zone and are in the EU(Britain, Ireland)  can move freely without the ETIAS. The ETIAS will be open for third national countries including America, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, etc..

8. How do I apply for ETIAS?

You can apply for ETIAS online. Mail and postal applications are not accepted.

9. What documents do I need for ETIAS?

The only thing you need for ETIAS is your valid passport. And along with that, a valid credit or debit card to pay the fee.

10. Do I need ETIAS if I have Schengen Visa?

No, you don’t need to apply for ETIAS if you have Schengen visa. You can tell the border security that you the Schengen visa, however, you can apply for ETIAS if your Schengen visa expires.