Eligibility of ETIAS

  • Vanuatu could be one of the initial members of ETIAS.
  • As of 2025, Ni-Vanuatu citizens are currently unable to apply for ETIAS.
  • Applicants for ETIAS from Ni-Vanuatu will benefit from using an online application system

Other Requirements for ETIAS

  • ETIAS is applicable for entry into Europe via air, sea, or land.
  • Machine-readable e-passports are mandatory for travellers.
  • ETIAS covers brief visits for tourism, business, transit, and medical purposes.
  • ETIAS is provided free of cost to applicants aged between 18 and 70.

Starting in 2025, Ni-Vanuatu citizens will be expected to obtain an ETIAS prior to entering European countries that are participating in the program. This requirement will apply to those visiting for a brief period, not exceeding 90 days, for reasons such as tourism, business, transit or medical treatment. At present, Ni-Vanuatu citizens must apply for a Schengen Visa to gain entry into member countries.

The implementation of the ETIAS program, also known as The European Travel Information and Authorisation System, has been prompted by the current worldwide rise in terrorism. For the past few years, the international community has been grappling with the threat of terrorism and its associated risks. The ETIAS program is aimed at addressing these concerns by providing a streamlined and efficient system for screening travellers from non-European countries who are seeking entry into Europe. By having this system in place, European countries will be better equipped to identify and mitigate potential security threats, thereby enhancing the overall safety and security of the region.

With the ETIAS program, Ni-Vanuatu citizens who are eligible to travel to Europe will be required to apply for a visa prior to their trip. This will involve providing information about their background, travel history, and the purpose of their visit. The information will then be cross-checked against various databases, including security and criminal records, to determine the traveller’s eligibility to enter Europe.

The development of the ETIAS program began in 2016 when it was approved as a measure to enhance security across participating European countries. This new screening tool was created with the aim of tying in existing immigration databases and security data to provide a seamless process for checking travellers. The program required four years of development to ensure that all systems were in place to provide an effective screening tool.

Starting in 2025, citizens of Vanuatu will need to have an approved ETIAS prior to entering Europe, regardless of whether they are travelling for business, leisure, transit or medical purposes. This applies to all modes of transportation, including air, sea, or overland. The requirement applies to travellers who will be transiting through Europe en route to other destinations, as well as those who will be staying for a short period of time.

Ni-Vanuatu citizens travelling to Europe for a stay longer than 90 days, or for reasons other than tourism, business, transit, or medical, will need to apply for a Schengen Visa. Information about this requirement can be obtained by visiting https://etias.co.uk/ and using the assessment tool on the homepage.

To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is recommended that Ni-Vanuatu citizens apply for their ETIAS at least 96 hours before their scheduled departure. Information about the application process, requirements, and frequently asked questions can be found by visiting the ETIAS requirements page and ETIAS FAQ’s section on the website. It is advised to thoroughly review these pages before starting an ETIAS application to prevent any delays or rejection.

In 2025, full citizenship of Ni-Vanuatu is a prerequisite for applying for the ETIAS. If a traveller holds a passport or travel document of a different status, they may have to apply for a full Schengen visitor visa instead of an ETIAS.

It is important to note that the ETIAS visa waiver is only for individuals with full Ni-Vanuatu citizenship. Travellers who hold passports or travel documents with a different status will not be eligible for the ETIAS and may have to apply for a full Schengen visitor visa.

Travellers should be aware of the different types of visas available and ensure that they meet the requirements for the type of visa they wish to apply for. This can help to avoid any delays or the risk of a visa application being refused. To get more information about visa requirements and application processes, travellers can visit the official websites of the European Union or consult with the relevant consular or embassy offices in Ni-Vanuatu.

The process of applying for an ETIAS for Ni-Vanuatu citizens is quick and efficient. In most cases, approval is granted within minutes of submitting the application. This authorisation will be sent via email, in the form of a PDF document. No physical documents need to be carried out as the ETIAS will be electronically linked to the passport information stored in the European immigration system.

Benefits of ETIAS

  • An ETIAS authorisation remains valid for 3 years from the date of issuance.
  • A valid ETIAS allows multiple entries within a 90-day duration.
  • Speedy approval and delivery via email.
  • Available for application on any device, whether it be desktop, tablet or mobile.

Application Advice for ETIAS

  • It is recommended to complete the ETIAS application 96 hours before departure.
  • A full visitor visa can still be applied for in case of denial of an ETIAS.
  • The final entry decision lies with the border security personnel of the European country of arrival, regardless of having an ETIAS.