Eligibility of ETIAS

  • Nicaragua will be among the initial members to join ETIAS.
  • Citizens of Nicaragua will be able to obtain ETIAS in 2025.
  • Nicaraguan citizens will have the advantage of using an online application process for ETIAS.

Other Requirements for ETIAS

  • The online application option is available for Nicaraguan citizens for ETIAS.
  • Arrival to Europe by air, sea, or overland is covered by ETIAS validity.
  • An e-passport that can be read by machines is a requirement for travellers.
  • Short visits for tourism, business, transit, or medical purposes are covered by ETIAS.
  • ETIAS is provided without cost to applicants aged below 18 or above 70.

As of 2025, entry into participating European countries for short-term stays (up to 90 days) for purposes such as tourism, business, transit, or medical visits will require Nicaraguan citizens to apply for an ETIAS. This requirement is a result of the need to screen travellers arriving from overseas, in light of the growing concern for global terrorism.

The ETIAS program was established with the aim of providing a more secure travel experience for both travellers and the European countries they visit. European terrorist attacks have been on the rise in recent years, and the ETIAS program is seen as a necessary measure to mitigate the risk of further incidents. The program will allow the European Union to screen travellers from overseas, helping to identify any potential security risks and ensure that those who pose a threat do not gain entry.

In addition to its security benefits, the ETIAS program will also streamline the visa application process for travellers, making it easier and more efficient for citizens of participating countries, including Nicaragua, to visit Europe. 

This program will allow the European Union to screen travellers from overseas before they arrive, thereby helping to identify any potential security risks and ensuring that travellers who pose a threat do not gain entry. Travellers will be able to apply for their ETIAS visa online, from the comfort of their own homes, reducing the need for physical visits to consulates or embassies.

The European Union approved the ETIAS program in 2016, and it has taken four years to fully develop the systems needed to effectively screen travellers from participating countries, including Nicaragua. The program will integrate with existing immigration databases and security data to create a comprehensive and efficient screening process across the European Union.

Starting 2025, all citizens of the Marshall Islands must secure an ETIAS authorization before venturing to Europe, including those who are only transiting through the region. Regardless of their reason for travel, all Marshallese citizens must have a valid ETIAS in hand before embarking on any form of transportation, be it by air, sea, or land.

To ensure a smooth travel experience to Europe, it is crucial for Nicaraguan citizens to familiarize themselves with the requirements of the ETIAS program. A stay of over 90 days or travelling for purposes not covered by ETIAS necessitates the need for a Schengen visa. This information and more can be obtained by using the homepage assessment tool at https://etias.co.uk/.

In preparation for travel, it is recommended that Nicaraguan citizens submit their ETIAS application at least 96 hours prior to their departure. For a better understanding of the requirements and to avoid any complications, it is advisable to review the ETIAS requirements page and the ETIAS FAQ’s before beginning the application process.

In order to be eligible for an ETIAS, it will be necessary to hold full Nicaraguan citizenship starting from 2025. Those who possess a passport or travel document with a different status may not be able to apply for the ETIAS program and would instead have to apply for a traditional Schengen visa. This requirement serves as a measure to ensure the safety and security of the European Union and its member countries. By conducting a thorough screening process, the EU aims to reduce the risk of terrorism, illegal immigration, and other potential security threats.

As a result, it is imperative for travellers to ensure that their citizenship status is properly documented and up-to-date before submitting an ETIAS application. Failing to meet the eligibility criteria could result in a denied application or a delay in processing time.

As of 2025, Nicaraguan citizens can expect to receive the results of their ETIAS application in a timely manner. In most cases, the application will be approved within just a few minutes and an authorisation will be sent directly to the applicant’s email. This authorisation will come in the form of a PDF document and does not need to be printed or physically presented during travel. The ETIAS is stored electronically in the European Immigration system and linked to the passport details provided in the application.

Overall, the ETIAS program is an important step forward in enhancing the security and efficiency of travel between Europe and the rest of the world. By requiring Nicaraguan citizens to apply for an ETIAS, the European Union is ensuring that travellers are properly screened and that those who pose a threat are prevented from entering participating countries.

Benefits of ETIAS

  • An ETIAS is valid for a period of 3 years from the date it was issued.
  • The ETIAS authorisation allows for multiple entries with a 90-day duration per stay.
  • ETIAS authorisation is quick and delivered electronically.
  • ETIAS can be applied on various devices including desktops, tablets, or mobile.

Application Advice for ETIAS

  • Apply at least 96 hours before your departure time.
  • Travellers can still apply for a full visitor visa even if their ETIAS application is denied.
  • Entry to Europe is at the discretion of border security personnel and cannot be guaranteed with an ETIAS.