Digitalisation does not stop at the world of travel. More and more processes, from travel bookings to tour selection, are being handled via the internet. This also applies to visa applications and entry permits. Even the future European entry registration ETIAS will be done via the internet. Most people have an internet connection and the corresponding terminals. But what do travellers do who do not have the appropriate equipment?
Travellers do not have to get internet
The bad news is that it is indeed not possible to apply for entry into the Schengen area without the internet. The good news is that applications can be made by third parties. A friend, grandson or one's own child usually has the appropriate equipment and is certainly helpful in filling it out. Single people can get help from visa agencies or travel agents. These usually charge a small fee, but it is definitely less than buying a computer just for the trip.
By the way, a smartphone is enough to fill in the form. Although the screen is a little small, the ETIAS page adapts to the device so that the form is easy to read.
The following must be observed when filling out the form
The person completing the form needs his or her passport. From there, he or she must transfer all data conscientiously. Anyone who has ever filled out a similar ESTA application for entry into the USA knows that the passport number in particular causes problems. When it comes to the name, one rarely makes a mistake. Here, first and last names are occasionally confused. When it comes to the passport number, it is easy to make a mistake. No one checks the number because the passport itself does not have to be submitted. Most of the time, the mistake only comes to light when the person enters the country. Since the number on the passport does not match the information on the application, the tourist cannot enter the Schengen area. In most cases, he or she can submit another application directly at the airport. However, if there is a delay in processing, the plane will take off without the traveller.
For the first journey, the country of destination must be indicated. This is binding. All subsequent journeys may be to a Schengen member country of one's choice.
It is advisable for the tourist to be present when filling out the application. If any ambiguities arise, they can be clarified immediately.
The applicant receives the permit by e-mail. He can print it out and take it with him on the trip. This is not absolutely necessary, because the permit is stored on the Internet. The border official calls up the data on his computer and compares it with the passport.
An ETIAS does not yet entitle you to enter the Schengen area
If the information on the passport and the ETIAS permit are different, this can lead to problems with entry, as explained above. Even if all the information is correct, the border official may refuse entry. This can happen if the officer feels that the traveller poses a threat to the security of the Schengen area. Therefore, the tourist should refrain from making any statements, because otherwise the plane may take off without him/her despite a valid ETIAS.
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Digitalisation does not stop at the world of travel. More and more processes, from travel bookings to tour selection, are being handled via the internet. This also applies to visa applications and entry permits. Even the future European entry registration ETIAS will be done via the internet. Most people have an internet connection and the corresponding terminals. But what do travellers do who do not have the appropriate equipment?
Travellers do not have to get internet
The bad news is that it is indeed not possible to apply for entry into the Schengen area without the internet. The good news is that applications can be made by third parties. A friend, grandson or one's own child usually has the appropriate equipment and is certainly helpful in filling it out. Single people can get help from visa agencies or travel agents. These usually charge a small fee, but it is definitely less than buying a computer just for the trip.
By the way, a smartphone is enough to fill in the form. Although the screen is a little small, the ETIAS page adapts to the device so that the form is easy to read.
The following must be observed when filling out the form
The person completing the form needs his or her passport. From there, he or she must transfer all data conscientiously. Anyone who has ever filled out a similar ESTA application for entry into the USA knows that the passport number in particular causes problems. When it comes to the name, one rarely makes a mistake. Here, first and last names are occasionally confused. When it comes to the passport number, it is easy to make a mistake. No one checks the number because the passport itself does not have to be submitted. Most of the time, the mistake only comes to light when the person enters the country. Since the number on the passport does not match the information on the application, the tourist cannot enter the Schengen area. In most cases, he or she can submit another application directly at the airport. However, if there is a delay in processing, the plane will take off without the traveller.
For the first journey, the country of destination must be indicated. This is binding. All subsequent journeys may be to a Schengen member country of one's choice.
It is advisable for the tourist to be present when filling out the application. If any ambiguities arise, they can be clarified immediately.
The applicant receives the permit by e-mail. He can print it out and take it with him on the trip. This is not absolutely necessary, because the permit is stored on the Internet. The border official calls up the data on his computer and compares it with the passport.
An ETIAS does not yet entitle you to enter the Schengen area
If the information on the passport and the ETIAS permit are different, this can lead to problems with entry, as explained above. Even if all the information is correct, the border official may refuse entry. This can happen if the officer feels that the traveller poses a threat to the security of the Schengen area. Therefore, the tourist should refrain from making any statements, because otherwise the plane may take off without him/her despite a valid ETIAS.