If you are Venezuelan and you are thinking about travel to Europeyou've probably already heard of the ETIASThe new requirement will start to be implemented soon.
And, if you still don't know what it is or how it can affect you, don't worry, here we explain it to you in a simple way.
The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is an authorisation that you will need in order to be able to enter the most European countries, even if your stay is short and you don't need a traditional visa.
This system will not only affect the Venezuelansbut to all citizens of countries which, until now, have been able to enter Europe without a visa.
This new requirement may raise doubts, especially for those who are already accustomed to travelling without complications to Europe.
Therefore, in this article we will tell you everything you need to know about ETIASThe most important thing to know is what exactly it is, how to apply for it and, most importantly, how to apply for it, how it will impact on Venezuelans who want to visit Europe For tourism, work or any other reason - read on!
What is ETIAS?
The ETIAS is basically a permit you will need (when it is in force) if you want to enter many of the countries of Europe.
Although it may sound complicated, the idea is quite simple. If you are from a visa-free country for short stays in Europesuch as in the case of the Venezuelanswith this you will have to order this authorisation before travelling.
It is important to clarify that the ETIAS is not a visa. You will not need to go to an embassy or go through a long and complicated process. Everything the procedure is done online and most applications are approved within minutes.
The main reason why the European Union has decided to implement this system is for security reasons.
They want to make sure that all travellers entering the Schengen area (which are the countries that allow travel without border controls between them) do not pose a risk to the continent, either because of terrorism, irregular immigration or serious crime.
In short, the ETIAS is an additional filter that Europe is putting in place to improve control over who enters its territory.
Although it may seem like a extra procedure, should not be complicated if you meet the requirements, and it will be something you will need before you get on the plane to Europe.
Would you like to know what European countries that do not require visas from Venezuelans today? In our article, you'll find all the information - don't miss it!
When does it come into force?
Originally, the ETIAS was scheduled to start operating in November 2023but there has been a change in the dates. Now, the European Commission has confirmed that the system will enter into force in 2025.
Although an exact date has not been given, it is expected that the ETIAS is implemented between five and six months after the Input-Output System (SES) is in operation.
The SES is another system that the European Union is introducing for improving border control, allowing registering arrivals and departures of non-European travellers more efficiently.
Therefore, the ETIAS will work in tandem with this system, so we are likely to see a period of adaptation, where both systems will be implemented gradually.
This means that, for the time being, you will be able to travelling to Europe without ETIAS until it is fully implemented.
When finally comes into force in 2025, shall be mandatory for entering many European countries, even if your stay is short or you are a tourist.
Which European countries require this permit?
One of the most common questions is in which European countries you will need the ETIAS. The answer is related to the Schengen area, which is a group of European countries that allow free movement among themselves without the need to go through border controls.
If you are travelling to any of the countries that are part of this space, you will need this authorisation once it enters into force.
Therefore, countries requiring ETIAS include most of the Europe's most popular tourist destinationsas Spain, France, Italy, Germany, the Netherlands, Greece, Portugal and Italy.among many others.
In total, there are more than 27 countries within the Schengen area. So if you are planning to visit the major European cities or tourist destinations in these locationsYou will need to apply for this permit before your trip.
It is important to clarify that not all European countries belong to the Schengen area. For example, United Kingdom is not part of the agreement, so if you are travelling to Londonyou will not need the ETIAS (although the The UK has its own immigration requirements).
Nor will you need it if you are going to Irelandwhich is also outside. However, if you then plan to move to other European countries within the space, you will be asked for this authorisation.
To make it clear to you, here are some of the most important countries that will be requiring the ETIAS: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania.
Find out about the requirements and the application process.
As we have seen, in 2025 apply for ETIAS will be a mandatory step for travel to EuropeBut don't worry, the process is quite simple and quick.
Here's what you need to know to get this authorisation and be ready for your trip without complications.
What do you need to apply?
These are the basic requirements that you should take into account when applying:
- Valid passport: The main thing is to have a Venezuelan passport that is valid during your trip. The system will ask for your passport details, so make sure it is not about to expire soon. If you want to know how to renew your Venezuelan passport in SpainDon't miss this article!
- E-mail: It is important that you have an active email address because they will send you the confirmation once they approve it.
- Credit or debit card: The ETIAS has an approximate cost of 7 eurosYou will need a card to pay the application fee. If you have under 18 or over 70You will not be charged this fee, but you will still have to apply.
Steps to apply
The first step is to fill in a form which will be available in the official ETIAS website. You will be asked for basic information such as your name, date of birth, passport number and other personal data.
In addition, the system will ask you some questions about your backgroundIf you have been deported from a country, if you have a criminal record, or if you have travelled to conflict zones.
These questions are part of the security process to make sure that you do not represent a risk for Europe.
Once fill in the formyou will have to pay the fee of 7 euros (if applicable). As mentioned before, you can do this with credit or debit card.
And, the good news is that, in most cases, the The answer comes in a matter of minutes.
If everything is in order, you will receive the confirmation by e-mail with travel authorisation. In very specific cases, if there are any details that need to be reviewed, the process could take up to 30 daysbut that is not the norm.
What happens if your application is rejected?
If for some reason your application is rejectedYou will receive an email explaining the reasons.
If you think it was a mistake, you can appeal or correct information you have provided incorrectly.
It is important, however, to be honest in your answers, especially when it comes to the criminal recordsbecause the system cross-checks information with international databases.
What is its validity?
Once you are approved for the ETIAS, shall be valid for a period of three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
During this time, you will be able to entering and leaving Schengen countries as many times as you like, as long as your stay does not exceed 90 days within a period of 180 days.
As we can see, apply for ETIAS is a fast and digital process. If you have everything in order, you should have no problems, and in a short time you will be ready for enjoy your trip to Europe.
The important thing is to plan ahead and make sure you meet all the requirements!
How does ETIAS affect Venezuelans?
For the Venezuelans who dream of knowing Europe, the ETIAS is going to change the way people travel a little bit.
Until now, the Venezuelans have been able to visit Schengen countries (such as Spain, France, Italy and many more). visa-free for short stays.
It was only necessary to have the valid passport and a return ticket. But, with the arrival of the ETIAS, there will be an additional step before you can embark on your dream journey.
From CuriaraWe hope that we have helped you and clarified your doubts about everything related to the ETIAS.
While this new requirement may seem like a change, with the right information and good planning, you'll be ready for the next step. to embark on your European adventure without any problems.
Pack your bags and set off to discover the world with confidence!
