UNITED STATES- American travelers have enjoyed the privilege of visa-free access to numerous destinations worldwide, with the U.S. passport ranked the eighth most powerful globally on this year’s Henley Passport Index.
However, starting in early 2024, European Union (EU) will introduce new travel document requirements for American tourists in the form of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
Visa Requirements for Americans Traveling to Europe
ETIAS will apply to all visitors from visa-free countries, including the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It won’t be a traditional visa but a simple online application where travelers provide basic biographical information, travel plans, history, and security-related questions.
Approval will be sent via email, usually within an hour, though sometimes it may take up to 96 hours. The application fee is €7 (about $8), and travelers of all ages must apply.
Once approved, the authorization remains valid for three years or until the passport expires, reported CNNTraveler.
Many Americans initially expressed concerns about the new requirement, but as more details about ETIAS surfaced, travelers have grown more at ease with the simplicity of the process.
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ETIAS Buzz
“Honestly, the buzz around [ETIAS] on social media made me a little nervous, but after doing some research, that initial shock definitely subsided,” says Alexa Moore, a frequent traveler to Europe for both business and leisure.
“It’s still easy for us to travel to Europe. It’s just one more step we must consider before our trip,” Moore added.
ETIAS aims to enhance border security by digitally screening and tracking travelers entering and leaving EU countries.
Its application process parallels the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program in the United States, which has fostered Americans’ understanding of the new requirement.
Blogger Remarks
“I’m bummed about it, but it does seem easy enough,” says Nicki Post, a travel blogger and YouTuber. She has spent extensive time in Europe. “It’s only fair since the US makes it more complicated for Europeans and people of other nationalities to enter the US.”
“Initially, we may see more videos on social media and reports of people forgetting to apply for ETIAS. Possibly being unable to go, but that’s the norm any time we get a new travel requirement in place,” Moore says.
“I also think pandemic travel has actually helped people be a little more prepared for the possibility of new systems. Further new requirements are being in place, like submitting test results and health information. Subsequently, other documents in preparation for entry even to a visa-free country,” added Moore.
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