Unlocking Europe: What You Need to Know About ETIAS vs. EES and How They Change Your Travel Plans
Unlocking Europe: Understanding the Key Differences Between ETIAS and EES for Your Next Adventure
The European Union is getting ready to introduce two new border management programs that will impact travel to Europe: the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) and the Entry/Exit System (EES).
What changes are being made to travel regulations and how do these two systems differ? Read on to find out.
What is the Difference Between ETIAS and ESS?
The EU is creating ETIAS and EES to make travel safer and smoother. ETIAS checks travelers from visa-free countries before they arrive to spot any security risks, helping to keep everyone safe. EES tracks when people enter and leave the EU, making it easier to prevent illegal stays and catch identity fraud by using fingerprints and photos.
Together the two systems also help share important information quickly among EU countries, making border checks faster and more reliable. Overall, these programs aim to improve security, manage borders better, and ensure a smoother travel experience for everyone.
New Travel Requirements for Visa-Free Entry to Europe: ETIAS and EES Explained
ETIAS is a newly implemented entry requirement for travelers who are exempt from needing a visa to enter 30 European countries for short stays. This applies to the 29 countries in the Schengen Area, along with Cyprus. With ETIAS, travelers who do not require a visa (visa-free travellers) must obtain travel authorization prior to their journey.
ETIAS is not a visa, and its implementation does not change the visa-free travel status for these individuals.
The EES registers non-EU nationals entering Europe for a short stay (less than 90 days), whether they require a visa or not (visa-free travellers). However, no actions will be necessary for travelers to take prior to their journey, as the registration process will occur at the external border (entry) of any of the 29 European Schengen countries utilizing the system. The registration process in the Entry/Exit System (EES) will occur each time travelers enter or leave these external borders, taking the place of the traditional passport stamping.
Planning travel to any Schengen Country?
Be aware of a new travel authorization going into affect mid 2025 for travel to European counties in the Schengen Area called ETIAS.
Learn all about it in our eBook ETIAS – New Rules for Travel to Schengen Countries
Understanding EES Requirements for Non-EU Nationals’ Short Stays in Europe
For the EES, a ‘non-EU national’ is someone who is not from any European Union country, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland.
A ‘short stay’ means you can visit for up to 90 days in any 180 days. This time is counted together for all the European countries that use the EES and you either:
- Need a visa for a short visit to European countries using the EES
- Or don’t need a visa for a short visit to those countries (visa-free travel)
Your entries, exits, or if you’re denied entry, will be recorded electronically in the EES.
In Cyprus and Ireland, even though they are in the European Union, your passport will still get a stamp by hand.
Some people might not need to be registered in the EES.
Who Needs an ETIAS Travel Authorization?
If you’re a traveler from a visa-free country planning a trip to the Schengen Area in 2025 or later, it’s crucial to understand that you’ll need an ETIAS travel authorization.
Whether your journey is for leisure, business, or family, applying for ETIAS ahead of time is necessary. Regular travelers will find this new system designed to simplify border processes, enhancing your travel experience. Additionally, for remote workers and digital nomads looking to discover Europe while managing work responsibilities, obtaining an ETIAS will guarantee a smooth entry into the diverse cultures and stunning landscapes that await you.
You will need an ETIAS travel authorization if:
- You are a non-EU national
- You are from a country that doesn’t require a visa for short visits to European countries that use ETIAS (visa-free travel)
- You don’t have a residence permit or card from any of the European countries that require ETIAS
Who Does not Need an ETIAS Travel Authorization
Some people might not need to get an ETIAS travel authorization. For instance, citizens of EU countries can relax, as they won’t need an ETIAS travel authorization to visit Schengen Area nations. Moreover, those with a valid long-term visa or a residency permit for a Schengen country are also free from this requirement, simplifying their journeys.
Additionally, holders of diplomatic passports and government officials on official business are exempt from applying for ETIAS. Before you fill out the application, take a moment to check who needs to apply and who might be exempt. It’s a small step that can save you time and ensure everything goes smoothly!
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What Information does the ETIAS and EES Collect?
When seeking an ETIAS travel authorization, travelers must supply personal details, including their address, passport information, current job, and any history of travel to conflict areas or criminal records. ETIAS does not require the collection of biometric data, such as fingerprints.
In contrast, the EES will gather facial images and fingerprints of travelers. Additionally, it will obtain travel document information, as well as the date and location of when travelers enter and leave the European countries utilizing the system.
When will EES and ETIAS Begin?
Travelers will be required to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization well ahead of traveling to Europe, while registration with the EES takes place upon entry (at the external border) of the 29 countries using the system.
ETIAS and the EES will be introduced at different times. The EES will start operating first, followed by ETIAS six months later.
The European Union will disclose the specific dates later in 2025.
Which 29 European Countries Are Using EES?
Citizens from visa-exempt countries and territories will be registered upon first entry using the EES into the following countries.
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland.
Which 30 European Countries Are Using ETIAS?
Travelers from visa-exempt nations must obtain ETIAS travel authorization to enter these 30 European countries.
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland
Images europa.eu under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) licence https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/who-should-apply_en
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the differences between ETIAS and EES is essential for planning your next European adventure. These new systems are designed to enhance security and streamline your travel experience, ensuring that your journey is as smooth as possible.
So, whether you’re a slow traveler looking to explore new cultures or a couple seeking your next romantic getaway, make sure you’re prepared for these changes. If you’re a traveler from a visa-free country, make sure to apply for your ETIAS authorization ahead of your trip and stay informed about the EES registration process.
Don’t let new regulations stop you from discovering Europe’s stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures. Start planning your adventure now! Be prepared so you won’t risk being denied entry and ruining your trip.
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