The rules for traveling to the European Union (EU) are set to change in 2024. The introduction of a new electronic visa waiver system will mean that visitors from many countries will have to register online. This may affect you if you are planning to study a short course or simply go on vacation to an EU member state.
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) has been in the works for some time and is slated to be launched towards the end of 2024. It will provide an extra level of security for the EU by screening incoming passengers who do not need a visa.
You must meet the ETIAS requirements to register with the system. This will be a quick process — simply enter your details in an online form. If you do not meet the necessary criteria, you will have to get a visa instead.
Where Can You Travel With the ETIAS?
If you are planning to visit the Schengen Area, you will need to register with the ETIAS before your trip.
The Schengen Area is composed of 22 EU countries and the 4 member states of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). ETIAS registration will grant access to all 26 countries as well as to 4 other EU countries that plan to join Schengen (Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Romania).
The Republic of Ireland, although a member of the EU, maintains its own separate immigration policy. The ETIAS will therefore not be valid for entry to Ireland.
The ETIAS visa waiver is for short-term visits (up to 90 days). If you are going to a Schengen Area country for a holiday, a business trip, or to do a short course or training, you will need to register.
Who Needs to Register With the ETIAS?
Many foreign nationals will need to log their details with the online system before traveling to Europe from 2024. However, not all visitors will need to sign up with the ETIAS. It will depend on where you come from.
There are 3 categories of traveler, based on nationality:
- EU and EFTA citizens
- Nationals of visa waiver countries
- Nationals of other countries
Citizens of EU and EFTA member states have the right to freedom of movement to all other countries in both blocs. If you come from any of these countries, you will not need to register with ETIAS.
If you come from a country outside the EU and EFTA that has a visa waiver agreement with Schengen, you can currently visit using only your passport. You do not need to apply for a visa unless you plan to stay in the long term and/or work in Europe.
From 2024, you will need to register with the ETIAS to continue to enjoy the benefits of visa-free travel.
If you are from another third country and currently have to apply for a visa to visit Europe, this will not change after 2024. In this case, you will not be eligible for the ETIAS.
How to Register With ETIAS
It will be very straightforward to get approval for traveling to Europe with ETIAS. All you will need is a computer or device connected to the internet.
Simply enter your details into an online form. You will be asked for your basic personal information, such as your name and nationality. Your passport details will also be required.
The whole thing is expected to take a matter of minutes to do. The ETIAS is modeled on the US ESTA — another fast and user-friendly travel authorization system. The ESTA frequently approves applications on the same day and almost always within a few working days. It is fair to assume that the ETIAS will feature a similar turnaround time.
You will be notified by email when your ETIAS registration has been approved.
Can I Study in the EU/Schengen Area With the ETIAS?
It depends on the type and length of course you want to do.
The ETIAS is for short-term visits, primarily aimed at tourists and business travelers. It will allow you to stay for up to 90 days in any Schengen country. This means that you will be able to do short courses and training programmes as long as the duration is less than 90 days.
If you want to study in Europe for longer than this, such as a degree course at a university, you will need to check the rules for the particular country in which you plan to study. It is most likely that you will need a student visa or another type of permit to do this.
Conclusion
It is also worth considering that there are various scholarships available in educational institutions in Europe. If you apply for and receive a scholarship, the university or institution in question will most likely provide assistance in obtaining the necessary visas or permits.
Learn more about studying abroad!
