What happens after the application has been sent?

English

ETIAS approval usually takes place within a few hours. Without the traveller noticing, many processes run in the background. Since these are controlled by electronic systems, the mere query is very quick. Only if there is a hit does it take a little longer. In this case, the applicant is not rejected across the board, but is examined in more detail manually. Of course, this takes a little time. In this case, the approval of the application is delayed by a few days. If the application is still rejected, the traveller can appeal against it if he believes the rejection is unjustified.

 The ETIAS information system provides the digital infrastructure

 The ETIAS information system first provides a website. This must be easy to use and available in several languages. Language barriers often make it difficult to fill out the page quickly. It is also important that the page can be easily accessed on different devices. More and more people are using mobile phones. Many websites have problems because of the small screen. A good website is programmed with a so-called Responsive Design. This page automatically adapts to the end device. This makes it easier to make entries. There is also an e-mail function. Some areas ensure that the provisions of the data protection regulations are complied with. The applicant must agree to the processing of his or her data. This tick is of course not final. If the traveller objects to it, the data will be removed.

 The ETIAS Central Unit is responsible for security

 When filling out the ETIAS, the traveller has to answer many questions. Especially important are the questions concerning the security of the countries involved. For this reason, the individual member countries are responsible for this query. The ETIAS Central Unit defines, among other things, the questions to be asked of travellers. These change again and again, just as the security situation can change again and again. As these queries are important for the security of the states, regular audits lead to a constant improvement of the questionnaire.

 The Central Unit also checks the travellers who have had a hit. The staff then decide whether the traveller should receive an ETIAS or apply for a visa.

Among the many databases that are searched during the check, the so-called ETIAS Watchlist stands out. These databases list all persons who have committed a criminal offence at some time or who are believed to be in danger of committing a criminal offence in the near future. The database is fed by Europol.

 Safer on the road with ETIAS

 Admittedly, it takes a lot of effort to answer all the questions truthfully. But if you concentrate on the work, you can do it in a few minutes. In return, they can enter the country for 90 days within a 180-day period for the next three years. The tourist can travel without worries because the country is safer thanks to ETIAS.