Your guide to the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)

Now that pandemic-related travel restrictions have eased, people across the UK are taking to the skies again this summer. But beyond flight cancellations and travel chaos, which has been reported in a number of airports from Heathrow to Manchester and beyond due to the post-pandemic surge in demand, there’s another potential consideration for British passport holders: the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). In this Pacific Prime UK article, we’ll spill the beans.

Brexit’s impact on travel

While travelling from the UK to the EU as a British passport holder prior to Brexit was seamless and hassle-free, doing so now is characterised by bureaucracy and inconveniences. Whether it’s familiarising yourself with the new rules around passport validity, queuing up in the non-EU lanes at immigration, or even substituting the EHIC with the GHIC, British passport holders wanting to visit EU countries are no doubt missing the good old days. But did you know that travel to the EU is set to become even more troublesome with the ETIAS?

The European Travel Information Authorization System (ETIAS)

British travellers visiting the US are familiar with the country’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), where non-visa nationals under the Visa Waiver Program are required to fill out an online form and pay a fee before receiving authorization to travel. The ETIAS is based on a similar concept and, after being pushed back from a late 2022 launch, will debut in May 2023. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs):

Who will need an ETIAS?

EU citizens and residents will be exempt from the ETIAS as they can enjoy freedom of movement around the block. The ETIAS will apply to citizens of countries that previously didn’t need a visa to visit the EU, affecting 60 countries, including the UK. 

Note: There are no changes for citizens of countries that generally need a visa to visit the EU.

How will the system work?

Unlike applying for a visa, which can involve a trip to the visa application centre and providing biometric information, the ETIAS will be a largely automatic IT system. For an estimated 95% of applicants, approval will be granted within minutes.

Note: Some applicants in very exceptional cases could be waiting up to a month for approval. If authorization is denied for whatever reason, applicants have the right to appeal the decision. 

Will the authorization be for a single trip or multiple trips?

Fortunately, ETIAS authorization will be valid for an unlimited number of entries into the EU over three years. But those with ETIAS authorization must abide by immigration rules and not overstay. 

Note: At present, third-party nationals can’t stay in the block for more than 90 days in any given 180-day period. 

What are the costs involved?

For those between the ages of 18 and 70, the cost of an ETIAS is  €7 or $7.35. However, it’s unclear whether those below 18 or above 70 will benefit from a subsidised rate or be able to apply for free. 

Note: To provide some comparison, the US’s ESTA costs $21.

Travelling soon? Get in touch with Pacific Prime UK today!

If you’re travelling to the EU soon, you’ll want to make sure you have a valid GHIC. But the GHIC isn’t a substitute for travel insurance, which the UK government also clearly states on their website. As such, it’s still worth securing a travel insurance plan to give you peace of mind whilst abroad. Not sure where to begin your hunt for travel insurance? Pacific Prime UK is at your service. 

As a global health insurance brokerage, with over two decades of experience, we have been helping travellers from all walks of life secure the right plan for their needs and budget. With so many options out there, our advisors provide 100% impartial advice and a tailored plan. What’s more, they also provide a number of value-added services to support you throughout your insurance journey. 

Contact us today to get started!