Visiting Europe? You May Soon Need a Permit
Starting in 2024, Canadians intending to visit Europe will need to obtain a travel authorization through the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), rather than a visa. This measure comes as the European Union aims to enhance its border security measures.
Canadian passport holders planning to stay in any of the 30 EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period will be required to apply online for the ETIAS. Currently, Canadians can travel to Europe visa-free for stays of up to three months, but if their visit exceeds 90 days, a visa is necessary.
To apply for ETIAS, Canadian travelers will need to provide personal information, travel document details, educational background, current occupation, details about their intended stay, and disclose any criminal convictions. The application fee for ETIAS is set at $10, and it must be submitted online.
Certain individuals are exempt from the fee, including children under 18, seniors above 70, family members of EU citizens, and non-EU nationals who can freely move throughout the European Union.
While most applicants can expect a quick processing time, some may experience delays of up to 14 days if additional information or documentation is requested, or up to 30 days if an interview is required. The EU will communicate any reasons for rejecting an application via email, and unsuccessful applicants have the option to appeal the decision.
The ETIAS program, approved by the European Council in 2018, will impact around 1.4 billion travelers from more than 60 countries that currently enjoy visa-free entry to Europe. The travel authorization obtained through ETIAS will be valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
The ETIAS system aims to bolster Europe’s internal security by conducting pre-travel screening of visa-free travelers, assessing potential security, illegal immigration, or public health risks. Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, is responsible for overseeing this process.
Although the ETIAS rollout has faced multiple delays, it is expected to be launched in 2024. Once implemented, it will be an essential requirement for Canadians planning to visit Europe in the future.
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