You may have heard rumors about traveling to Europe becoming more complex in the near future. The positive news is that overcoming this new obstacle is expected to be simple and affordable. Moreover, it seems that no significant changes will occur until 2025. So, here's all the information you need to know about traveling to Europe under the new visa regulations.
What is ETIAS?
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Since 2009, visitors eligible to enter the United States have had the option to fill in an ESTA prior to their trip. This document replaced visa waiver forms and allowed for pre-screening of applicants. While it doesn't guarantee entry, it does expedite the arrival process.
Similarly, the ETIAS, once implemented, will operate in a similar manner and primarily cater to tourists and individuals participating in study programs lasting less than 90 days. It will also cover those traveling for business meetings or conferences, but it doesn't grant the right to work. If uncertain, it's advisable to obtain written confirmation from the relevant authorities.
So how does it work?
The European Travel Information and Authorization System, or ETIAS, is a travel authorization document for short-term stays. Its purpose is to allow European border officials to conduct pre-checks in order to enhance passenger and citizen safety.
Even with an ETIAS, border officials will still ask certain questions to determine if entry is permitted. Typically, these questions cover the purpose of the visit, accommodation arrangements, and financial sufficiency. It's important to note that these are the same questions you would likely be asked even without the ETIAS.
If you hold multiple passports, ensure that the one you present matches the one associated with your ETIAS. If you change your passport, such as your name, gender, or nationality, you'll need to obtain a new ETIAS. Each traveler must have their own ETIAS, as group authorizations are not possible.
What areas are covered by the ETIAS?
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Visa-free travelers from eligible countries, such as the United States, will need to obtain an ETIAS in order to visit 30 European countries. These countries include the members of the Schengen zone (most EU member states) and a few other European countries.
The complete list of countries requiring an ETIAS includes: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic (also known as Czechia), Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. In addition, the microstates of Andorra, Vatican City, San Marino, and Monaco are also included as they do not have international airports.
There are some notable exceptions, such as the Republic of Ireland, which is a member of the EU but not part of the Schengen Zone. Other exceptions include Montenegro, Serbia, Gibraltar, and Albania. Since Brexit, the United Kingdom is no longer part of the EU, so travelers visiting England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland will not be covered by the ETIAS.
Is a separate ETIAS required for each country visited?
In brief, the answer is no. Once your ETIAS application is approved, it will be accepted in all countries that have agreed to the agreement. Most of the time, you can freely travel between these countries without going through document checks. However, there are instances where this may not be the case, so it's important to have your passport on hand at all times and be ready to answer any questions from border officials.
When will the new regulations take effect?
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At the moment, it's not currently possible to apply for an ETIAS as the launch date of the scheme has been postponed. It's now estimated that from mid-2025, travelers will be required to have an ETIAS. Once the scheme is in effect, you will be able to apply for it online. Ensure to provide accurate and carefully entered personal information and passport data as any errors could result in being denied entry at the border.
Most applicants will receive their authorization within a few minutes, but during busy periods, it might take longer. It's advisable to complete the application form a few days in advance. The cost of the ETIAS is expected to be 7 Euros, which is non-refundable. However, individuals under 18 and over 70 years old will be exempt from this fee. This is a better option compared to the current $21 charge for an ESTA in the US. It's a great deal!
In rare cases, an interview may be required to obtain approval for your visit. This process can take up to 30 days, so it's recommended to apply early if your trip is non-negotiable. In addition, it might be wise to delay booking accommodations and flights until you have a valid ETIAS.
What is the duration of the ETIAS?
Great news! Once your ETIAS has been approved, it will remain valid for three years. As long as you limit your visits to a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day timeframe, you can utilize the same ETIAS for the entirety of those three years. However, it's important to note the expiration date, as your ETIAS must cover the entire duration of your stay in European countries, rather than just the day of your arrival.
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In addition to our comprehensive travel guide, we would also like to provide you with some more useful information on traveling, which will be handy for those who prefer doing this by air.
If you use your own car to reach the airport, you know it's critical to park it safely for the duration of your trip. Almost every airport has special on-site parking for this purpose. However, travelers aren't ready to spend a lot of money at the beginning of their trip, as this option is pretty costly. So what should we do then?
Our booking platform, ParkingNearAirports.io, offers travelers online reservations for parking just outside airports that are affordable and convenient. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing travelers parking options at over 100 airports in the US and Canada. The app allows customers to search and compare parking rates at up to 70 percent savings compared to the cost of on-site parking at all major airports.
What is actually off-site parking, and which advantages has this parking type, you may ask? So let's take a closer look at this question.
First of all, off-site parking is much cheaper. So you can save money and then spend the most considerable amount on the things you really want to try or see while traveling.
Secondly, off-site parking services are faster. It might seem that it's faster to park your car at the airport, but that's not always the case. Off-site parking offers you the following convenience: when you drive directly up to the entrance, a staff member pulls your luggage out of your vehicle and loads it into the shuttle. Then they park your car for you. After your baggage is loaded, you can take your seat in the shuttle, which will bring you and your bags to the airport. It's a hassle-free option that is usually faster.
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Thirdly, it's much more convenient. People are always stressed before the trip, as there are many things you should keep in mind. Not to be late when taking off, fighting traffic, finding a parking place, wondering how long the shuttle service will take, and more can leave you annoyed before you step foot inside the airport. If you choose off-site parking, you are using the assistance of a private company that caters to travelers' needs. Such services can make your trip much more comfortable when you arrive at the airport and return home.
With ParkingNearAirports.io, it takes just a few clicks within the application to reserve a parking spot. Upon arrival at off-airport parking, customers receive a booking confirmation and a guaranteed parking spot. The app helps customers find the most convenient airport parking lots. If plans change, cancellations are hassle-free and refundable.
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Let's look at an example. Imagine that you live in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. If you're planning a trip to Europe, you can choose cheap parking lots near Philadelphia Airport. If you're coming from Las Vegas, Nevada, the situation is the same – you can use affordable off-airport parking Las Vegas. So it depends just on where you are flying from.
On our official website, you can find the best deals, airport parking fees, and other information connected with parking near US and Canadian airports.
