Australians looking to enter Europe from next year will need to apply for a new special permit to travel through 30 countries, as the European Union looks to beef up security.
From 2024, Australian would-be visitors will need to apply with the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in order to enter.
The ETIAS system has been put in place for citizens of otherwise visa-exempt countries. Here’s what you need to know.
How will ETIAS affect my travel plans?
The authorisation is linked to your passport, so make sure you have the same one you applied to ETIAS with.
ETIAS authorisation still does not guarantee entry to any of the participating European countries – you will need to pass entry requirements at the border.
How do I get my ETIAS authorisation?
When applications are open, you will need to apply through the ETIAS website.
You will need a valid travel document, such as a passport, that will not expire in less than three months, and is less than 10 years old.
ETIAS will also ask applicants for personal information such as their name and contact details, intended length of visit, and criminal history.
Most applications will take “minutes” to process after they’re lodged, ETIAS claims, but some could take up to four days.
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Do I have to apply every time I want to travel to Europe?
An ETIAS travel authorisation is valid for three years or until the passport you applied with expires – whichever comes first.
But it’s for short-term stays. Authorisation entitles you to travel in participating countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
You must be in possession of a valid ETIAS travel authorisation during your entire stay. You can leave and come back at any time, as long as you respect this time limit.
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You’ll need to fork over an application fee of €7 ($11.22 as of June 7, 2023, but this may vary depending on the exchange rate).
People under 18 or over 70 are exempt, as are family members of EU citizens.
The UK is not part of the ETIAS system – in fact, UK citizens will have to go through the same process as Australians to visit Europe.
Travel rules to the UK from Australia remain unaffected.
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