Planning a European getaway? Or, better yet, an Italian getaway? Well, starting November 10th, 2024, and an additional rollout in the first half of 2025, you’ll need to know about a couple of new systems before packing your bags and dreaming of drinking wine in the Tuscan countryside. Meet EES And The New ETIAS System—two little acronyms that are about to change how non-EU travelers enter Europe. But don’t worry, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. These new rules are designed to make travel safer and more efficient (yep, even at those notoriously long border control lines!).Â
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Booking.com for your accommodations.
Hotels.com for more accommodations.
Viator for your things to do.
GetYourGuide for more things to do.
Discover Cars for your road trips.
Omio for your trains and buses.
What is the EES (Entry/Exit System)
EES is a new digital system that tracks when non-EU citizens enter and exit the Schengen Area. Instead of those old passport stamps, they’re rolling out biometric tracking (think fingerprints and facial recognition). Why the upgrade, you ask? It’s all about boosting security, cutting down on overstayers, and speeding things up at border control! This system will be implemented on November 10, 20024
What is ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System)?
ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization required for visa-exempt non-EU citizens. There are over 60 visa-exempt countries, including America and Canada. The ETIAS is being implemented to improve border control and screen travelers for security, public health, or immigration risks before arrival. You must apply online for this and have it before boarding your flight abroad. Required information for the application includes passport details, travel plans, and security-related questions. Honestly, it’s nothing to fear; getting your approval only takes a few minutes. This system will be implemented in the first half of 2025.
How To Prepare For The EES And ETIAS Systems In 2024
Preparing for the EES and ETIAS in 2024 is easier than you might think. First, check if you need an ETIAS (see above photo). Then, hop online, fill out the quick application, and you’re good to go. Make sure your passport is valid because your ETIAS is linked to it! And at the border, expect a smooth biometric scan instead of the old-school stamp. The key? Don’t wait till the last minute—apply early, have your docs ready, and you’ll breeze right through! I would plan to get this done three months before your departure date.
What Happens At The Border?
With the new EES and ETIAS systems, things will look a bit different when you hit the border. Instead of the usual passport stamp, you’ll get a quick biometric scan—either a fingerprint or facial recognition. Your entry and exit get logged digitally, so no more stressing over manual stamps. The idea is to speed things up and ensure your time in the Schengen Area is tracked smoothly. You’ll still need to show your passport, but the process should be much faster.
What’s The Cost?
The ETIAS application will cost around €7 for travelers aged 18 to 70. The good news? If you’re under 18 or over 70, the application is free! Once you pay the fee, you’re all set for up to three years of travel across Europe (or until your passport expires).
Does The ETIAS Last A Lifetime?
Unfortunately not. Like most things, you will need to renew this every three years or until your passport expires—whichever comes first. So, if your passport expires in two years, you’ll need to apply for a new ETIAS with your new passport. During those three years, you can use it for multiple trips, but remember, each stay can only be up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Easy, right?
Conclusion
So, there you have it—everything you need to know about the new EES and ETIAS systems rolling out in 2024 for your next trip to Italy or the EU. While it might sound like a lot of changes, it’s really just about making your trips to Europe smoother and more secure. A quick online application, a biometric scan at the border, and you’re good to go! Just remember to apply ahead of time, keep your passport updated, and enjoy the extra time saved for what really matters—your European adventure. You can also visit the site here for more information on this new system.
FAQs
Some commonly asked questions on this topic can be found below.
Why Did The ETIAS Get Pushed Backed?
Originally, it was to start being implemented in 2022. However, due to issues with the technology, it was pushed to 2024 and is now to begin in early 2025. The summer Olympics in Paris, technical issues, and EU regulations all contributed to the most recent delay.
Which Criminal Offenses May Lead To Restriction From Entering The ETIAS Countries?
- Terrorism (any conviction in the last 20 years)
- Human trafficking.
- Drugs trafficking.
- Sexual exploitation of children.
- Rape
- Murder
Do You Need A Schengen Visa To Travel To Europe If You Have A US Passport?
Yes, if you are a citizen in any of the 60 visa-exempt countries, you will need this visa along with your passport.
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