In light of recent misinformation in the media, it is important to clarify the situation: no, U.S. and Canadian citizens will not require a visa to travel to Europe from 2024.. In reality, they will have to obtain a prior travel authorization called a ETIAS (European System for Travel Information and Authorization), similar to the U.S. ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) or Canada's AVE (Electronic Travel Authorization).
ETIAS, a new European visa-free security system
The European Union decided to set up this system to reinforce the internal and external security of its member countries. ETIAS has been designed to carry out automatic checks on every traveler before they enter the Schengen area, in order to avoid potential threats from crime and terrorism.. This procedure will also apply to nationals of certain visa-exempt third countries for short-term stays in the Schengen area. However, it is important to note that ETIAS is not a visa, and in no way calls into question the principle of exemption.. The electronic authorization simply enables the competent authorities to check travelers' backgrounds before they arrive in the Schengen area.
How will ETIAS work?
From 2024, US and Canadian citizens will have to log on to the official ETIAS website to complete an online application. This request must be filled in carefully and truthfully, then paid by credit card.. The cost will be 7 euros for adults and free for under-18s. The information provided will be analyzed by the ETIAS system, which will carry out security checks on each applicant. If the application is approved, the electronic travel authorization will be issued and linked to the applicant's passport. It will be valid for 3 years, or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If the ETIAS refuses, the applicant must apply for a visa from the relevant embassy or consulate to obtain authorization to enter the Schengen area..
It should also be noted that the ETIAS scheme only applies to short-term trips (less than 90 days) for tourism, business or family purposes. For longer stays (study, work, etc.), you will still need to apply to the relevant consular authorities for a long-stay visa.
What does this mean for American and Canadian travellers?
Citizens of the United States and Canada must therefore prepare for this new administrative process from 2024. It is essential to remember that the ETIAS does not replace a visa and does not authorize the nationals concerned to work or study in Europe without obtaining a visa adapted to their situation.. However, this authorization greatly simplifies the process of accessing the Schengen area for short stays. For American and Canadian travelers, it's important to find out what is required to obtain ETIAS authorization, and to ensure that you meet these requirements before planning a trip to Europe. Once obtained, this document will be required for all eligible travelers wishing to enter the Schengen area, in the same way as a valid passport.
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