Traveling to EU in 2024 — ETIAS application process explained
Ukrainians, Brits, and citizens of 60 other countries will have to obtain European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) clearance and pay 7 euros to enter EU countries after the EU’s new Entry-Exit System (EES) is launched in 2024.
Once the new system is activated, all visitors except for legal residents or long-term visa holders will have to scan their passports and travel documents when crossing the EU's external borders. The system will record the traveler's name, biometric data, and the date and place of entry and exit. Facial scans and fingerprint data will be stored in an electronic database for three years after each trip.
Ukrainians need ETIAS to enter the EU
The ETIAS is an entry permit to the EU for citizens of visa-exempt countries. It is linked to the person's passport and is valid for three years or until the passport expires. A new passport requires a new ETIAS.
ETIAS allows entry into:
All EU countries except Cyprus and Ireland.
Four non-EU Schengen Zone countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.
With ETIAS authorization, one can enter the countries multiple times, but stay no longer than 90 days total within 180-day period.
The ETIAS application fee is €7 for Ukrainians.
The application must be submitted before booking tickets and accommodation, as the processing time can take between 4 and 30 days in some cases.
How to apply
Applications are currently not being accepted. Starting from 2024, authorizations can be applied for either through the official ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile app. A valid biometric passport will be required. Regular passport holders will need to apply for a visa.
After submitting the application, an e-mail confirmation with a unique application number will be received. The number should be kept for future reference.
Upon the completion of the process, another e-mail will be sent with the results of the application.
Check the name spelling, passport number, and other details, if ETIAS approval is received, as any errors could prevent entrance to the EU.
If the ETIAS application is rejected, an e-mail notification will explain the rationale, and provide information on how to appeal, details of the responsible authority and the deadline for the appeal.
Who doesn't need to apply for ETIAS
Schengen visa holders and foreign nationals holding a long-stay visa issued by an EU member state do not need to apply for ETIAS.
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