Introduction
Traveling to Europe is about to change as the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) becomes mandatory. As such, many travelers will need authorization before entering the Schengen Zone for short stays. However, not everyone must apply.
In this article, we explain who is exempt from ETIAS and why. Correspondingly, if you plan to visit Europe, knowing these rules will help you avoid surprises. Read on to ensure you meet the travel requirements before booking your trip.
What is ETIAS?
A New Travel Authorization for Schengen Zone Entry
To clarify, ETIAS is not a visa, but a pre-travel authorization for visitors from visa-exempt countries. It aims to enhance security and streamline entry procedures for short-term travelers. In addition, the system applies to citizens of over 60 countries who could previously enter the Schengen Zone without prior approval.
European authorities introduced ETIAS to improve border security and prevent irregular migration. With the system, authorities can screen travelers before arrival, reducing potential risks. The authorization remains valid for three years or until the traveler’s passport expires.
ETIAS Launch
After years of preparation, ETIAS will become mandatory six months after the rollout of the Entry-Exit System (EES). The EES is an automated registration system for travelers from the UK and from certain non-EU countries.
Travelers who need ETIAS authorization must complete an online application before departure. However, some travelers are exempt from this requirement. Hence, let’s explore who doesn’t need it.
Who Needs ETIAS?
Before discussing exemptions, it’s essential to understand who must apply for ETIAS.
- Citizens of visa-exempt countries like the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Japan need ETIAS for stays up to 90 days
- Nationals of visa-exempt countries and family members of EU citizens or nationals of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, or Switzerland
- Students traveling to European countries requiring ETIAS on a school trip. They must be nationals of visa-required countries living on the territory of visa-exempt countries.
- Recognized refugee residing in or holding a travel document by visa-exempt countries or Ireland. Also, they must not be required to have a visa for European countries requiring ETIAS.
- Stateless person residing in and holding a travel document issued by visa-exempt countries or Ireland. Similarly, they must not be required to have a visa to visit European countries requiring ETIAS.
Who is Exempt from ETIAS?
While many travelers must apply for ETIAS, some don’t need it at all. Below are the key exemptions.
1. Citizens of European countries requiring ETIAS
If you hold a passport from the following countries, then you are completely exempt from ETIAS. No additional authorization is necessary.
- Austria,
- Belgium,
- Bulgaria,
- Croatia,
- Cyprus,
- Czech Republic,
- Denmark,
- Estonia,
- Finland,
- France,
- Germany,
- Greece,
- Hungary,
- Iceland,
- Italy,
- Latvia,
- Liechtenstein,
- Lithuania,
- Luxembourg,
- Malta,
- Netherlands,
- Norway,
- Poland,
- Portugal,
- Romania,
- Slovakia,
- Slovenia,
- Spain,
- Sweden,
- Switzerland
Key Takeaway: If you’re an EU or Schengen citizen, you only need your passport or national ID to enter any Schengen country.
2. Nationals of visa-required countries for European countries requiring ETIAS
Generally, passport holders of the following countries don’t need an ETIAS authorization and must apply for a visa instead:
- Afghanistan
- Algeria
- Armenia
- Angola
- Azerbaijan
- Bangladesh
- Burkina Faso
- Bahrain
- Burundi
- Benin
- Bolivia
- Bhutan
- Botswana
- Belarus
- Belize
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Cambodia
- Comoros
- Central African Republic
- Congo
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Cameroon
- Chad
- China
- Cuba
- Cape Verde
- Djibouti
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- Egypt
- Eritrea
- Eswatini
- Ethiopia
- Fiji
- Gabon
- Ghana
- The Gambia
- Guinea
- Equatorial Guinea
- Guinea-Bissau
- Guyana
- Haiti
- Indonesia
- India
- Iraq
- Iran
- Jamaica
- Jordan
- Kazakhstan
- Kenya
- Kyrgyzstan
- Kuwait
- Laos
- Lebanon
- North Korea
- Liberia
- Lesotho
- Libya
- Morocco
- Madagascar
- Mali
- Myanmar/Burma
- Mongolia
- Mauritania
- Maldives
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- Niger
- Nigeria
- Nepal
- Oman
- Papua New Guinea
- Philippines
- Pakistan
- Qatar
- Russia
- Rwanda
- Saudi Arabia
- Sri Lanka
- Sudan
- Sierra Leone
- Senegal
- Somalia
- Suriname
- South Sudan
- São Tomé and Príncipe
- South Africa
- Syria
- Togo
- Thailand
- Tajikistan
- Turkmenistan
- Tunisia
- Turkey
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
- Yemen
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
3. UK nationals who are beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement
UK nationals and their family members who are beneficiaries of the Withdrawal Agreement don’t need an ETIAS. They have permission to live on the territory of their host EU country. In addition, they can also travel to other European countries requiring ETIAS provided that they present supporting documents.
4. Nationals of Andorra, San Marino, Monaco, the Vatican City, or Ireland
5. Refugees, stateless persons, or persons without nationality
Such persons living in any of the European countries requiring ETIAS don’t need the travel authorization. Additionally, they must have a travel document issued by that host country.
6. Residents of any European countries requiring ETIAS
7. Holders of Valid Schengen Visas
Travelers who already have a valid Schengen visa do not need ETIAS authorization. Because the Schengen visa already allows entry for short-term stays, ETIAS doesn’t apply to these travelers.
Important Note: If your Schengen visa expires, you must either renew it or check if you qualify for the authorization.
8. Holders of a national long-stay visa
9. Holders of a local border traffic permit
10. Diplomatic and Official Passport Holders
Some diplomatic, service, or official passport holders are exempt from ETIAS. This exemption applies to government officials, United Nations personnel, and diplomats on official duty.
Exemptions depend on bilateral agreements between the EU and specific countries. As such, travelers should confirm their status with their embassy before departure.
Key Takeaway: If you travel on official duty, check whether your passport qualifies for an exemption.
11. Members of the armed forces traveling on NATO or Partnership for Peace business
They must have an identification and individual or collective movement order. This is provided by the Agreement between parties to the North Atlantic Treaty on the Status of their Forces.
12. Holders of a travel document issued by intergovernmental international organizations
These organizations must be as provided for in Part 3 of the European Parliament and of the Council’s Decision No. 1105/2011/EU.
13. Intra-corporate transferees, students, or researchers exercising their right to mobility
This must be in accordance with Directive 2014/66/EU or Directive (EU) 2016/801.
14. Crew members
This applies to the following:
- Civilian air or sea crew members on duty,
- Civilian sea crew members going ashore holding a seafarer’s identity document
- Crew or members of an emergency or rescue mission in case of disasters or accidents
Checking If You Need ETIAS
To avoid travel disruptions, it’s best to confirm your ETIAS requirement before your trip. Here’s how:
- Check EU news sources for the latest information.
- Use the ETIAS eligibility tool to determine if you need authorization.
- Verify your passport and visa status with the airline before departure.
If you are unsure about ETIAS exemptions, consult your local embassy or consulate.
Conclusion
ETIAS has become mandatory, but not everyone needs it. EU citizens, Schengen visa holders, and long-term residents are exempt. Diplomats and cross-border workers also qualify for exceptions.
If you plan to travel to Europe, check if the authorization applies to you before booking your flight. Knowing the latest information ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a new ETIAS travel authorization if I change my citizenship or my name?
Yes, you still need a new ETIAS. Thie is because the travel authorization is linked to your passport. Hence, any changes to your name and/or citizenship require applying for a new ETIAS.
I am a dual citizen and one of my citizenships is of a European country requiring ETIAS. Do I still need to apply for it?
No, you won’t need to apply for it.
What if I visit multiple Schengen countries?
ETIAS allows travel across all Schengen countries for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. As such, you don’t need additional applications.
Can authorities deny ETIAS?
Yes, authorities may deny ETIAS applications if you:
- Have a criminal record or you pose a security risk
- Provided false information on the application
- Are flagged on EU security databases (e.g., SIS, Europol).
If denied, expect to receive a reason for rejection as well as instructions on how you can appeal.
Can I still apply if I haven’t finalized my trip plans?
Yes, you can still apply for an ETIAS even if your travel plans aren’t final yet. You can always make changes to your trip even after securing the travel authorization.
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash
