In a recent development, the European Union has once again pushed back the anticipated launch date of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
EU sources have confirmed this postponement, raising concerns about the system’s readiness and the interconnected Entry/Exit System (EES).
European Travel Information and Authorisation System
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a new travel authorization system that will be implemented by the European Union (EU) in May 2025.
ETIAS will require citizens of non-EU countries who currently enjoy visa-free travel to the Schengen Area to obtain authorization before their trip.
Postponement of ETIAS Launch
The launch of ETIAS has been postponed several times and was most recently scheduled for mid-2024. However, EU officials have now confirmed that the launch has been further delayed to May 2025.
Reasons for the Delay
The delay in the launch of ETIAS is due to a number of factors, including technical challenges and the need to coordinate the implementation of ETIAS with other EU border security systems.
Impact of the Delay
The delay in the launch of ETIAS will mean that travellers from non-EU countries will not need to obtain authorization to travel to the Schengen Area until May 2025.
However, travellers are advised to check the latest information on the ETIAS website before their trip, as the launch date could be further postponed.
What to Expect from ETIAS
ETIAS will be a simple and online process that will take most travellers just a few minutes to complete. Applicants will need to provide basic personal information, such as their name, date of birth, and passport number. They will also be asked to answer some questions about their travel plans and health history.
Vital Connection: ETIAS and EES
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an essential EU border security system, designed to automatically register travellers from third countries every time they cross an EU external border.
Both the ETIAS and EES have experienced continuous delays, with their fates deeply intertwined. While the EES can function independently, the ETIAS cannot become operational without the EES.
EES Remains on Track for 2024
In contrast, the Entry/Exit System (EES) remains on course for an implementation date in 2024. The eu-LISA, responsible for its development, is expected to unveil the exact date in the coming months.
Conclusion
The launch of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) has been postponed to May 2025. Travellers from non-EU countries will not need to obtain authorization to travel to the Schengen Area until that date.
However, travellers are advised to check the latest information on the ETIAS website before their trip.
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