The European Union Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs has confirmed details of a visa waiver and an Entry and Exit system (EES) for non-EU nationals.
The EES is an automated IT system for registering fingerprints, photograph and passport details of non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay, each time they cross the external borders of various European countries. The EES will launch on 10 November 2024.
The EU visa waiver will be known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). The ETIAS will cost EUR 7 (for anyone between the ages 18 to 70) and will apply to various non-EU citizens, including UK nationals, by summer 2025. The ETIAS will cover travel to the Schengen area, which includes every EU state except for Ireland and Cyprus, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The ETIAS will apply to stays of up to 90 days in every 180 days (although it does not guarantee entry). Longer stays will require a visa. Employers should take specialist immigration advice in relation to any visa requirements for business travel.
Passengers will need to apply online or via a mobile app (details required will include passport information as well as background questions about criminal records and medical conditions). The EU anticipates that more than 95% of applications will be approved automatically within minutes (although in some cases may take up to 72 hours). Applications may also be denied or take up to four weeks to process in exceptional circumstances.
The ETIAS will last for three years and allow an unlimited number of visits (though it will be linked to the applicant’s passport, so if the passport expires in less than three years, the applicant will need to apply for a new ETIAS linked to the new passport).
The material contained in this article is provided for general purposes only and does not constitute legal or other professional advice. Appropriate legal advice should be sought for specific circumstances and before action is taken.
For further information, please contact:
Philip Henson, Partner
ebl miller rosenfalck, London
e: moc.rmlbe@nosneh.pilihp
t: +44 (0) 7824 305 319
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