Eligibility of ETIAS

  • Saint Lucia has been chosen as one of the initial members to launch ETIAS.
  • Starting in 2025, citizens of Saint Lucia will have the opportunity to obtain ETIAS.
  • Citizens of Saint Lucia will experience a streamlined and convenient process by utilizing the online application system for ETIAS.

Other Requirements for ETIAS

  • The option to apply for ETIAS is available online for Saint Lucian citizens.
  • ETIAS covers all modes of transportation for entry into Europe, including air, sea, and overland travel.
  • A machine-readable e-passport is a requirement for travellers.
  • ETIAS caters to travellers going to Europe for brief tourism, business, transit, or medical purposes.
  • Individuals who are 70 or older, or under 18, will receive their ETIAS without a fee.

From 2025 onward, Saint Lucian citizens planning to travel to participating European countries for short stays of less than 90 days for general tourism, business, transit, or medical purposes will need to apply for ETIAS. This requirement is part of the ETIAS program, which aims to enhance the security of Europe by screening travellers from overseas. 

The implementation of ETIAS is a response to the increasing threat of terrorism worldwide.  The terrorist attacks have increased the need for enhanced security measures to ensure the safety of citizens and visitors. The ETIAS program will provide the necessary information to perform a comprehensive assessment of travellers and determine if they pose a security risk.

The information that will be gathered through ETIAS will be shared to different security agencies and authorities within Europe, such as Interpol, Europol, and national security agencies. This information sharing will enhance cooperation and coordination between different security agencies and authorities, leading to a more effective and efficient response to security threats.

Additionally, the information gathered through ETIAS will also be used for the purposes of border control and immigration management. It will help authorities to detect and prevent illegal immigration and other cross-border criminal activities, such as human trafficking and drug smuggling.

The ETIAS program was given the green light in 2016 and has been in the works ever since. It has taken four years to develop the necessary systems to integrate with existing immigration databases and security information, creating a streamlined new screening tool for participating European countries.

Starting in 2025, citizens of Saint Lucia will need to complete an ETIAS application before they board a plane, ship, or coach to travel to Europe. This applies to travellers who are simply transiting in Europe on their way to another destination as well. By requiring all travellers to complete an ETIAS application, the program will help to ensure the safety and security of all those entering Europe.

If a Saint Lucian citizen wants to stay in Europe for more than 90 days or travel for a purpose not covered by ETIAS, they must apply for a Schengen visa. For more information, they can use the assessment tool on the ETIAS website, https://etias.co.uk/.

To ensure a smooth and stress-free process, it is recommended that Saint Lucian citizens complete their ETIAS application at least 96 hours before their planned departure. Before starting the application, it is advisable to familiarize themselves with the ETIAS requirements and ETIAS FAQ’s pages. This will help to avoid any delays or the risk of the ETIAS being denied.

The ETIAS application process is designed to be simple and straightforward, but it is always best to be well-prepared. By reviewing the requirements and FAQs beforehand, Saint Lucian citizens can ensure that their application goes smoothly and that they are fully prepared for their trip to Europe.

In 2025, the ETIAS application process will only be available to full Saint Lucian citizens. Those who hold a passport or travel document with a different status may need to seek alternative options for entering Europe, such as a full Schengen visitor visa.

It is crucial for travellers to ensure that their citizenship status is eligible for the ETIAS program prior to submitting an application. Failure to meet the requirements may result in the need for a different visa or the rejection of the ETIAS application.

To avoid any confusion or complications, it is advisable for travellers to carefully review their citizenship status and requirements before applying for an ETIAS. Further information can be found by visiting the ETIAS website or consulting with relevant authorities.

Saint Lucian citizens travelling to Europe can expect a quick and efficient ETIAS application process. With the implementation of ETIAS, the application process can be completed and approved within a matter of minutes. This authorisation is sent to the traveller via email in the form of a PDF document.

There is no need to print or carry any physical documents, as the ETIAS is electronically stored against the passport details stored in the European Immigration system. This allows for a seamless and hassle-free experience for Saint Lucian citizens travelling to Europe.

Benefits of ETIAS

  • A valid ETIAS authorisation lasts for 3 years from the date it was issued.
  • An ETIAS authorisation allows for multiple entries into Europe with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit.
  • The ETIAS process provides rapid authorisation and delivers the result electronically.
  • The ETIAS application can be completed on a desktop computer, tablet, or mobile device.

Application Advice for ETIAS

  • It is advised to submit an ETIAS application at least 96 hours prior to departure.
  • Travellers who are denied an ETIAS can still opt to apply for a full visitor visa.
  • An ETIAS is not a guarantee of entry to Europe, as border security personnel of the European country of arrival make the final decision.