Introduction
Have plans of studying in Europe? Then your studies will likely require ETIAS, the European Travel Information and Authorization System. Specifically, this new digital permit impacts visa-exempt travelers, which applies to students seeking short-term studies.
It must be remembered that the ETIAS is not a visa. Specifically, it is a pre-travel authorization that allows visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. As such, many students may want to know if the authorization or a student visa applies to short-term study programs.
In this guide, we take you through how ETIAS works and how it’s different from a typical student visa. In addition, we discuss what you need to know before applying.
What Is ETIAS?
ETIAS is an automated system for travelers from visa-exempt countries visiting Schengen Area countries. Basically, it screens applicants for security risks before they enter Europe.
Key Facts About ETIAS
- Not a visa, but a travel authorization.
- Valid for three years or until passport expiration.
- Allows multiple entries for up to 90 days per 180-day period.
- Linked electronically to a traveler’s passport.
- Requires an online application with a small processing fee.
Specifically, the authorization applies to tourists, business travelers, and short-term students. However, it does not allow long-term residence, employment, or extended study.
Who Should Apply
ETIAS applies to travelers from the following visa-exempt countries:
- Albania
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Australia
- Bahamas
- Barbados
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Brazil
- Brunei
- Canada
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Dominica
- El Salvador
- Georgia
- Grenada
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Hong Kong
- Israel
- Japan
- Kiribati
- Kosovo
- Macao
- Malaysia
- Marshall Islands
- Mauritius
- Mexico
- Micronesia
- Moldova
- Montenegro
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- North Macedonia
- Palau
- Panama
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Samoa
- Serbia
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Solomon Islands
- South Korea
- Taiwan
- Timor-Leste
- Tonga
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Tuvalu
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
- Uruguay
- Venezuela
What Students Must Know
Eligible students can use the ETIAS study programs lasting 90 days or less. Specifically, this includes:
Programs Eligible Under ETIAS:
- Language courses (e.g., summer schools in Spain, France, Germany).
- Exchange programs for short-term study abroad.
- Workshops, certifications, and training programs.
Restrictions for Students
However, the authorization comes with certain limitations:
- Long-term study (bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. programs).
- No visa extensions—students must leave after 90 days.
- No work authorization—employment requires a student visa.
If your program exceeds 90 days, apply for a student visa instead.
ETIAS vs. Student Schengen Visa
Many students confuse ETIAS with a student visa. However, they serve different purposes. Here’s an overview:
ETIAS (For Short-Term Study)
- Maximum stay: 90 days per 180-day period.
- Purpose: Short courses, workshops, or exchange programs.
- Application: Online, simple, no embassy visit required.
- Limitations: No work, no extension beyond 90 days.
Student Visa (For Long-Term Study)
- Maximum stay: Based on the program length (1+ years).
- Purpose: University degrees, research, long-term education.
- Application: Requires embassy visit, financial proof, and acceptance letter.
- Benefits: Allows residence, work (part-time), and long-term study.
Which One Do You Need?
- Choose ETIAS if your program is 90 days or less.
- Apply for a student visa if your study lasts over 90 days.
ETIAS Application
The ETIAS application is entirely online and takes only a few minutes.
Step 1: Check your eligibility.
Your country must be on the visa-exempt list for ETIAS.
Step 2: Gather required documents.
Ensure you have a valid passport (with at least 3 months’ validity beyond the departure date). In addition, you must provide your personal and travel details (study program information). Moreover, you should not have any serious criminal record or past travel bans.
Step 3: Complete the online application.
Firstly, visit the online application platform. Next, provide your biometric details, travel history, and security-related answers. Pay the fee.
Step 4: Wait for approval.
Generally, most applications are approved within minutes. If authorities require additional screening, then the processing can take longer. Next, the approved ETIAS is electronically linked to your passport.
Step 5: Travel to Europe.
Show your passport (with ETIAS approval) at border control. Remember to ensure your stay does not exceed 90 days.
ETIAS Timeline Explained
It’s a question on many travelers’ minds: When will ETIAS start?
The launch has been delayed several times since authorities announced the authorization in 2016. Originally, it was supposed to launch in 2021. However, the launch date moved and moved due to technical and administrative reasons.
Latest updates have noted that the authorization should be operational six months after the EES (Entry/Exit System) is officially rolled out. The EES aims to modernize border management and security across the EU. In addition, it will help safeguard against identity fraud and crime.
In March 2025, EU Home Affairs Ministers confirmed that EES would go live in October 2025. Meanwhile, ETIAS would likely be implemented in the final quarter of 2026.
Fortunately, once the authorization launches, there will be a transition period. At this time, travelers can enter without the authorization. However, airlines may start checking passengers’ compliance. As such, it is best to apply as soon as possible once the authorization is live to avoid delays.
Conclusion
ETIAS simplifies short-term study in Europe by providing a quick and easy travel authorization. However, it does not replace a student visa for long-term education.
If your study program is 90 days or less, then the authorization is a fast, affordable option. However, if you plan to study for more than 90 days, then you must apply for a student visa instead.
Before booking your study program, make sure to check your ETIAS eligibility and ensure you choose the right authorization for your stay. Moreover, plan ahead and apply early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my stay beyond 90 days?
No, you cannot extend your ETIAS. Specifically, students must leave the European country requiring it and apply for a student visa if they wish to continue their studies.
Can I work while studying on ETIAS?
No, you cannot. It must be remembered that it does not grant work authorization. Hence, to work in Europe, students will need a student visa with work permission.
What if my ETIAS application is denied?
If denied, you can:
- Correct errors and reapply.
- Apply for a student visa instead.
- Appeal the decision, if eligible.
Does ETIAS cover all European countries?
No. It only applies to the following European countries:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Rebublic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
Can I apply for ETIAS if I am already in Europe?
No, you cannot. Specifically, you must have an approved ETIAS before traveling to the European country requiring the authorization.
Can I apply for ETIAS if I plan to study for one semester?
Yes, but only if the semester is under 90 days. It must be remembered that longer programs require a student visa.
Can I visit multiple countries in Europe with ETIAS?
Yes, you can. In particular, ETIAS allows travel to all included countries within the 90-day limit.
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