By 2024, every US citizen will be required to register with the European Travel Information and Authorization System if they want to travel to Europe.
After the commencement of this authorization system, all travellers from visa-free countries must present an ETIAS to enter any Schengen Zone country.
The main reason for introducing this system is to improve security from terrorism threats by curbing illegal immigration.
The Schengen Area includes 3 non-EU countries and 22 European countries. The three non-European Union countries include Switzerland, Norway and Lichtenstein.
Currently, Americans going to Europe don’t require visa registration. American citizens can tour Europe for not more than 90 days without having a visa. But, the trip must be for either business or tourism purposes.
How Long Can a United States Citizen Stay in Europe?
According to the European Travel Information and Authorisation System specifications, a US citizen can only stay in Europe for a maximum of 90 days within every 180 days.
If an American citizen needs to stay in any European country in the Schengen zone for more than 90 days, they must apply for a Schengen visa. The good news is that you can use a single ETIAS to make multiple trips to this region.
The validity of this authorization system lasts for a maximum of three years, unless the passport linked to it expires. Your times of visiting the Schengen Zone will remain unlimited for those three years.
What Do US Citizens Need to go to Europe?
As an American citizen, to apply with ETIAS, you must have a valid passport and an email account for correspondence. The email is used to notify you if your application has been approved.
Also, you must have a debit or credit card to pay for the ETIAS application fee.
Since Europe is a very famous destination for American citizens, people do tend to flock there, all with different agendas. The ETIAS ensures that only eligible travellers can visit countries in the Schengen Zone without a visa.
This offers an easier, cost-effective, and timely way of acquiring travel authorization. Besides, applying for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System is quicker and less complicated compared to the traditional visa application.
The procedure will only require you to provide your personal information and answer some security questions to allow assessment of your eligibility.
Note that ETIAS is not always a guarantee that you can enter the Schengen Zone. Applicants may sometimes be requested to provide health insurance, return flight tickets, or proof of funds showing they can afford to visit Europe.
How Can I Apply for an ETIAS to Travel to Europe?
Generally, applying for an ETIAS for US citizens requires you to fill out a brief form online answering security questions, medical history and personal details. It will only take you about 10 minutes to complete the online form.
ETIAS is usually processed within a short period, and when approved, it is automatically and electronically linked to your passport.
Europe has so many amazing countries to visit, and with the introduction of ETIAS, seeing them is easier than ever before.
Simply fill out the form, get your approval, and get ready to explore all the must-see European destinations on your bucket list.