Hey there, it’s Dylan from Europe Incoming, welcoming you back to EI’s Insights — your prime source for all things related to European travel. Big news on the horizon as we gear up for some significant changes in European travel. Let’s dive into what’s brewing for autumn 2024 – it’s a game changer, and you’ll want to be in the know.
So, the big headline is the launch of the Entry Exit System (EES), set to roll out in October 2024. After a few hitches and delays, it’s finally happening. For those of us not holding an EU passport, entering the European Union is about to get a tad more complex.
The EES is part of a broader scheme, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which is also on the docket for next year. Think of it as a double feature designed to streamline border control but with a bit more prep on our part.
If you’re planning to visit the Schengen zone from outside the EU, you’ll need to apply for a visa waiver through the EES. This isn’t just about filling out forms; it’s a bit more high-tech with biometric data like fingerprints and facial images getting logged at automated border checkpoints. Passport stamps are so yesterday – this system is digital and tracks your comings and goings in real-time.
Now, for the ETIAS, launching in 2025, it requires a small fee (€7, to be exact) but grants you 90 days of travel within the Schengen area. And the best part? Once you’re approved, you’re good to go for three years. Just remember, this doesn’t cover the Republic of Ireland, which plays by its own rules as part of the Common Travel Area.
But what if you’re already living in the EU with a residency card from an EU country? Good news – you might just skip the line with your biometric card in hand, avoiding the EES and ETIAS rigmarole altogether.
Curious about what these new checkpoints will look like? Imagine futuristic kiosks and automated gates popping up at airports and borders, ready to whisk you through with the latest in biometric technology. Countries like France, Germany, Italy, and even Norway are getting creative with self-service stations and automated camera solutions to keep things moving.
Now, I won’t sugar-coat it – there’s some chatter about potential delays and the dreaded long queues, especially for us Brits. With the EES in play, first-time visits might take a bit longer as everyone gets used to the new system. And with the spectre of 14-hour waits at some crossings, it’s clear there are some kinks to be ironed out.
Even with these advancements, there’s a shadow of doubt about getting everything up and running smoothly on time. The buzz from various EU nations hints at concerns over readiness and the impact on wait times at borders.
And because no adventure is without its dragons, watch out for ETIAS visa scams. Yep, they’re out there, but sticking to the official ETIAS site will keep you safe from those digital pitfalls.
So, there you have it – a glimpse into our travel future. As always, I’m here to keep you informed and ready for whatever comes our way. Here’s to making every journey smoother and filled with unforgettable memories. Safe travels, everyone!
