Eligibility of ETIAS

  • Macau will be among the first to join the ETIAS.
  • In 2025, the ETIAS application will be open for Macanese citizens.
  • An online application system will be available for Macanese citizens to apply for ETIAS, providing them with a convenient way to apply.

Other Requirements of ETIAS

  • Applying for ETIAS can be done online by Macanese citizens.
  • Arrival to Europe by air, sea or overland is covered by ETIAS.
  • A machine readable e-passport is a requirement for travellers.
  • ETIAS is only for short visits for tourism, business, transit and medical purposes.
  • ETIAS will not have a cost for applicants who fall under the age of 18 or above the age of 70.

Starting in 2025, Macanese citizens will need to obtain an ETIAS prior to entering participating European nations for short-term stays, which is defined as less than 90 days, for reasons such as tourism, business, transit, or medical treatment.

The ETIAS program, also known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System, is a new measure being implemented by the European Union to strengthen security and improve the flow of travellers entering the EU. The purpose of the ETIAS is to screen travellers for security threats and to ensure that only those who pose no risk are allowed to enter the EU.

The ETIAS program is being implemented in response to the increasing threat of terrorism around the world. The EU recognizes that the current system of visa-free travel for certain countries may be vulnerable to abuse by those with malicious intent. By implementing the ETIAS program, the EU aims to enhance its ability to screen travellers and prevent potential terrorist attacks. Additionally, the ETIAS program will also facilitate travel for eligible travellers by streamlining the process of entering the EU, thus making it more convenient and efficient.

The ETIAS program was officially approved in 2016 and was designed to be an electronic visa waiver system, it will take four years to implement the required systems that would tie in with existing immigration databases and other security data to provide a seamless new screening tool across the participating European countries.

Starting in 2025, citizens of Macau will have to complete an ETIAS application before they board an aircraft, sea carrier, or coach vehicle to Europe, this also applies to travellers who will only be transiting in Europe en route to other destinations.

For Macanese citizens who wish to stay in Europe for more than 90 days or for purposes other than those permitted under the ETIAS program, a Schengen visa will be required. Additional information can be obtained by visiting the official website of ETIAS at https://etias.co.uk/ and using the homepage assessment.

It is recommended that Macanese citizens submit their ETIAS application at least 96 hours before their scheduled departure. Complete information is on the ETIAS requirements page and ETIAS FAQ’s. It is advisable to review these pages before starting an ETIAS application to avoid any delays or the risk of an ETIAS being denied.

As of 2025, Macanese citizenship will be a prerequisite for individuals seeking to apply for an ETIAS. Those who hold a passport or travel document with a different status may need to apply for a Schengen visitor visa instead of an ETIAS.

It is important to note that the ETIAS and Schengen visas are two different types of travel documents. The ETIAS is a new electronic travel authorisation system that is specific to citizens of Macau and other eligible countries, while the Schengen visa is a traditional visa that allows individuals to enter and stay in the Schengen Area for a longer period of time, typically for more than 90 days.

It is crucial for travellers to understand the difference between the two and to apply for the correct document based on their travel plans. Both the Schengen visa and ETIAS are electronic travel authorisations, but the ETIAS is a newer and more streamlined process, designed to be simpler and faster to apply for than the Schengen visa. It is important for Macanese citizens to be aware of the different requirements and procedures for each type of travel authorisation in order to ensure that they have the correct documents for their trip to Europe.

Failure to do so may result in a denied entry or other complications during their trip to Europe. To ensure a smooth and successful trip, it is recommended that travellers review the requirements and guidelines for both the ETIAS and Schengen visas before applying.

The ETIAS application process for Macanese citizens is quick and efficient. In most cases, it is approved within a few minutes and the authorisation is sent via email as a PDF document. There’s no need to print or present any physical documents as the ETIAS is electronically linked to the passport details in the European Immigration system

Benefits of ETIAS

  • An ETIAS authorisation is valid for a period of 3 years from the date it was issued.
  • Allows for multiple entries within a 90-day period.
  • Quick approval and electronic receipt of ETIAS.
  • The ETIAS application process can be completed on a variety of devices, including desktop computers, tablets, and mobile phones.

Application Advice for ETIAS

  • It is recommended to submit your ETIAS application at least 96 hours before your planned departure.
  • Travellers who are denied an ETIAS can still apply for a full Schengen visitor visa.
  • The final decision for entry to Europe is made by border security personnel upon arrival in a European country, regardless of having an ETIAS.