Is ETIAS the new Schengen visa?

English

Again and again the question arises whether the Schengen visa will disappear with the introduction of ETIAS. This is not the case. ETIAS and Schengen visa are aimed at different target groups and will both coexist. Anyone who has needed a visa to travel to the Schengen area in the past will probably need one in the future. Travellers who were previously able to enter the Schengen area without a visa must fill in an ETIAS application.

 Who needs a Schengen visa, who needs an ETIAS application

Until now, travellers from certain countries have been able to enter the Schengen area without a visa. These are countries where the authorities assume that the travellers pose only a minor threat to security. The list is public and can be consulted. It changes occasionally.

Other countries are considered to pose less of a threat to security. These do not require a visa, but can enter with a passport. The list of countries is based on the experience of the past years. Of course, a potential terrorist may also come from one of these countries. In order to minimise the risk to the Schengen area, the countries want to introduce the ETIAS visa. The traveller has to fill in an application online. The authorisation procedure is carried out via the Internet. The approval procedure is similar to the ESTA system in the USA. Of course there are differences in costs, validity period and questions.

 The main differences between ETIAS and the Schengen visa

 A Schengen visa takes a certain amount of time and costs considerably more. Schengen visas are available for a wide variety of occasions. In most cases the traveller has to visit the consulate in his country. To do so, he must first make an appointment and arrive. This work can also be done by visa service providers, so at least the annoying paperwork is delegated.

The ETIAS permit is not only easier to obtain, but also cheaper. All that is required is an Internet connection and an appropriate terminal device. Ideally, the device should have an appropriately large screen. It will probably be possible to fill out the form via mobile phone, but it is not particularly convenient. Errors will quickly creep in on the small screen. A wrong cross and the approval is delayed or the authorities reject the application.

An ETIAS visa is valid for three years. During this time, the tourist may enter the country as often as desired, but only for 90 days within a 180-day period.

 Only business and tourist travel is possible

Entry with an ETIAS application is reserved for very specific destinations. In future, anyone wishing to spend a holiday in Greece, Italy or Germany will need an ETIAS. Entry with an ETIAS application is also possible for medical treatment.

Another important area is business travel. This does not include travel for work. For this purpose, every traveller, no matter from which country outside the Schengen area, needs a visa. If you want to explore business opportunities, you can do so with an ETIAS. It is also possible to attend congresses and other business meetings.