From 2025 onwards, citizens of the more than 60 countries and territories that are currently eligible for visa-exempt travel to Europe will be required to apply for and receive ETIAS authorization before they can begin their European journey. The current list of “third countries” includes nations outside the EU and Schengen area and those from these regions
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is a security measure taken by the European Union in order to better vet intending visitors to Europe. This measure is aimed at preventing those who may have malicious or criminal intentions from entering or traveling through the EU and Schengen Zone. By granting ETIAS approval, passport holders are allowed to enter and travel through all Schengen and EU member states, albeit for a 90-day maximum in a period of 180 days.
Categories of Travelers Entering the European Union
The European Union has established a distinction between three distinct types of travelers who enter its borders:
1. Citizens of EU or Schengen member countries are privileged when it comes to travel within the Schengen and EU zones. A valid passport is all they need to move freely and access any activities they wish, such as work, study, or medical treatment. No additional approval through ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is necessary.
2. Travelers from countries not included in the European Union’s list of third countries are ineligible to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver. Those wishing to visit Europe must instead have a valid visa specific to their destination country. In the event that a traveler wishes to visit multiple EU countries, they will need individual visas for each country they intend to visit.
3. The citizens of about 60 countries around the world are currently able to travel visa-free within Europe. This includes those from what is referred to as ‘third countries, referring to any nation that is not part of the European Union or Schengen Area. As a result, a new system has been put in place for these individuals called ETIAS, which will become a mandatory requirement for those wishing to enter Europe in the future.
The upcoming ETIAS system, set to be mandatory for all travelers from 2025, will require that individuals in the third category must apply and obtain approval before they are able to travel.
ETIAS Rule Exceptions
The first point of consideration when applying for an ETIAS is that the applicant must have a valid passport. The passport should be current and valid for at least three months beyond the last planned day of stay in Europe.
Though this is a general rule, exceptions to this may occur in certain cases. In such situations, it might be possible to visit, transit through or stay in the EU or Schengen Zone without having an ETIAS-authorized passport.
In certain cases, third-country nationals may be required to enter or travel within the European region without the necessary ETIAS-authorised passport. This can happen when you have:
- Seafarer’s Identity Document
- Emergency passport
- Diplomatic passport
The regulations regarding when and how each of these alternative forms of documentation may be used are as follows:
Emergency Passport
Emergency passports are issued to travelers who have been unfortunate enough to have lost, stolen, or damaged their original ETIAS-approved passport so badly that it is no longer usable. In these circumstances, it would be virtually impossible for a person to obtain a new passport while in transit, making an emergency or temporary passport the only viable option.
Temporary Passport
A temporary passport is a document issued by a government to provide limited passage for a specific length of time. Depending on the issuing country, it can usually be valid for three months or less. It is often used as an urgent measure in unexpected circumstances, such as losing one’s passport or needing to travel for medical reasons.
It is not intended to replace a standard passport, as it usually lacks the necessary electronic chip and is not valid for an ETIAS application. Therefore, it should be replaced by a full-term passport whenever possible.
Diplomatic Passport
Diplomatic passports are special travel documents issued to diplomats, granting them certain privileges and exemptions from visa requirements. According to the ETIAS regulations, holders of diplomatic passports from third countries do not need to obtain an ETIAS-approved passport in order to conduct business within the European Union or Schengen area.One of the main privileges of a diplomatic passport is that it allows the holder to enter and exit foreign countries without the need for a visa. This is because diplomatic passports are recognized by other governments as an official form of identification, and are often seen as a symbol of the bearer’s status as a representative of their country.
Seafarer’s Identity Document
Seafarer’s Identity Document, also known as a Seaman’s Card or Seaman’s Book, is an important document designed to provide seamen and boat crew members with recognition and identity.
In response to the complexities of maritime work, the International Labour Organisation adopted a convention in 1958 that granted seafarers temporary admission to the EU and Schengen Area. This enables them to work, take shore leave, shop, and receive medical treatment while they are in the area.
Traveling through Europe has always been a dream for many people – and now, thanks to the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), it’s become even easier. Even though many EU or Schengen countries can accept a Seaman’s Card and a valid passport without ETIAS approval, it is still wise to check each country’s individual policy before proceeding.
Although it appears that seafarers with a valid passport and identity document may not need ETIAS approval, this has yet to be officially confirmed.
In the event that a traveler’s passport is lost, stolen, or damaged in Europe, it is of utmost importance that they begin the process of securing an emergency passport right away. Without a valid Seafarer’s Identity Document or diplomatic passport, it cannot be assumed that they have already acquired ETIAS approval. Securing a new document is an absolute priority for those in this situation.
Application and Use of Emergency Passports
In the event that an emergency passport is required while abroad, it is possible to apply for one online or at an embassy. The cost of this process is a non-refundable fee of £100 and must be paid upon application. Personal information such as the details of the passport being replaced, as well as a valid email address and a contact phone number, will be required.
Depending on the application method, it may be necessary to make an in-person visit to the embassy – this should be specified by email or phone prior to application.
If the holder needs to use their emergency passport for travel, the names of all the countries they will be visiting and their precise dates of entry and departure will be listed on the document. It is absolutely essential that these details are followed carefully – any deviations from these may result in difficulties with border control or other authorities.
Any alteration to an individual’s itinerary will render their emergency passport application null and void, necessitating the submission of a new form. In most cases, applications are processed within two business days, granting the recipient a temporary emergency passport to use in the interim. However, delays may occur if the information on the application is incomplete or imprecise, or if the necessary supporting documentation is absent.