British holidaymakers will soon have to shell out on new documents ahead of flying to certain European countries or risk being turned away.
Under a post-Brexit scheme, tourists will need to buy a travel permit that allows them to enter all EU nations, among them the likes of popular destinations such as Greece, Spain, Cyprus, Italy and Turkey.
But if they’re not prepared to pay the seven euros for the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) visa waiver before they depart, then they may be stopped at border control from entering said countries.
They will be also be required to complete an online application form to get their ETIAS.
It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you will need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation.
The new document has been introduced to enhance security and enforce the borders of the Schengen zone, which includes most of Europe’s mainlands countries.
Most applications will be approved within minutes, but if the system spots an error in your request then it could be rejected.
According to Schengen Visa Info, ETIAS applications may be turned down for the following reasons:
– Your passport is invalid
– You are considered a ‘risk’
– You have a Schengen Information System (SIS) alert
– You submit an incomplete application
– You do not attend a required interview
If your ETIAS application is denied you can request an appeal.
The ‘eurovisa’ was due to go live at the end of 2023, but was pushed back to 2024 and has now been tipped to possibly come in later this year.
When it is fully functional, people from outside the 27 EU countries and wider Schengen area will have to register online and pay for a three-year permit.
Under the Brexit withdrawal agreement, the UK government negotiated for British citizens to be subject to the ETIAS rules, having helped design it while part of the bloc.
Every visitor entering the designated countries will have to have their fingerprints and facial biometrics checked on arrival and departure.
Travellers will need to scan their passports or other travel documents at an automated self-service kiosk prior to crossing the border.
