Americans and Canadians traveling to Europe will soon have an extra step to take before getting on the plane: an electronic application similar to the ESTA that many travelers to the U.S. and Canada have to fill out.
Starting in 2021, travelers from visa waiver countries will have to file information on line before traveling, using the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). A three-year permit to travel will cost €7.
The new program was approved last week by the European Parliament, and must now be ratified by the executive European Commission, which is expected to approve. The system will process applications automatically, and refer any containing or missing certain information to humans. The system will provide a decision within four weeks, and will have an appeal procedure.
The intent is to allow Europe to pre-screen for issues such as criminal or drug records, activities in 'conflict zones' who might be considered a risk for terrorism. While it is not explicitly a result of recent migrations to Europe, it is certainly set against a background of increasing suspicion and border security.
For more information on who will be required to use ETIAS, click HERE
Photo: Border control at Copenhagen Airport (hirotomo 1/Wikimedia)
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