The European Union (EU) recently rolled out new ETIAS guidelines to help international students understand its new travel authorization system.
ETIAS, or the European Travel Information and Authorization System, will impact all non-visa citizens visiting the Schengen Area.
This includes students from countries like the United Kingdom (UK) and countries whose citizens can come to the EU without a visa.
The EU’s ETIAS guidelines prepare students for upcoming changes and ensure they know what to expect before starting their educational journey.
What is ETIAS?
Commissioner for Home Affairs Ylva Johansson confirmed in her recent speech that the EU plans to introduce the ETIAS in May 2025.
It works similarly to the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization (UK ETA), which is already in place for select Gulf countries.
The ETIAS is designed to improve border security by pre-screening non-visa travelers before they enter the Schengen Area.
It will be required before entering 30 European countries, including the 29 Schengen countries and Cyprus.
Non-visa nationals must have an ETIAS before traveling to any EU Member State.
ETIAS guidelines for international students
The EU’s ETIAS guidelines for international students outline the essential aspects of the ETIAS and how it will affect their travel plans.
Here are some of the key points discussed in the primer:
1. ETIAS is mandatory for non-EU students
The ETIAS authorization will be mandatory for all non-EU students traveling to the Schengen Area.
This means students from countries like the UK who previously enjoyed visa-free travel to Europe will need an ETIAS before their trip.
2. Application process and required information
The application process is straightforward and can be completed online in just a few minutes.
International students must provide their name, date of birth, and a passport valid for more than three months and not older than ten years.
They must also answer security questions about their criminal and travel history and other factors impacting their ETIAS approval eligibility.
The EU assures students that most applications will be processed quickly, with most approvals granted within minutes.
Still, the EU advises students to apply for their ETIAS at least 96 hours before their scheduled trip.
3. ETIAS cost and payment
The cost of obtaining an ETIAS authorization is €7 per application, payable online during the application process.
This fee is much lower than traditional visa fees, making ETIAS a cost-effective solution for students planning to study in Europe.
4. ETIAS validity and usage
Once approved, the ETIAS authorization will be valid for up to three years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
Students should ensure their ETIAS authorization remains valid throughout their entire stay in Europe.
If a student’s ETIAS expires while still in the Schengen Area, they may need to reapply for a new authorization before their next entry.
5. Travel flexibility and mobility
The ETIAS is valid for multiple entries into the Schengen Area, allowing students to travel freely between Member States during its validity period.
This means they can travel and study in the 30 EU countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without needing additional visas or permissions.
This flexibility is especially beneficial for students who want to explore different parts of Europe during their studies.
To participate in more extended study programs, non-EU students need a Student visa.
6. Importance of compliance
The EU emphasizes compliance with ETIAS regulations to avoid entry denial or legal consequences.
Students are advised to double-check all information provided in their ETIAS application.
They are also advised to always keep a copy of their authorization with them while traveling.
7. Support and resources
In addition to the ETIAS guidelines, the EU has established various support resources to help students navigate the system’s application process.
This includes a dedicated official website, helplines, and informational brochures.
It also stressed that students must be diligent and apply for an ETIAS only through its official website or legitimate third-party providers.
The EU encourages students to utilize these resources to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when applying for an ETIAS.
ETIAS guidelines on implementation
The ETIAS implementation in 2025 gives non-visa travelers and international students ample time to learn about the new system.
The EU will roll out the ETIAS in two phases to give travelers and authorities time to adjust to the new system and ensure a smooth transition.
The first phase will be a voluntary registration period.
During this time, travelers will be encouraged to apply for an ETIAS before their trips, but it won’t be mandatory. They will not be denied entry into the Schengen Zone.
Six months after the initial rollout, ETIAS registration will be mandatory for all non-EU travelers entering the Schengen Area.
During this phase, all travelers without an ETIAS travel authorization will be denied entry at the border.
Still, first-time travelers to the Schengen Zone may be exempted and allowed entry, provided they meet all other entry requirements.
By 2026, the ETIAS system will be fully operational, with strict enforcement and monitoring in place.
Travelers who fail to obtain an ETIAS authorization before their trip will be denied entry at the border.
The EU plans to continuously monitor the system’s effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments to improve its functionality.
What this means for UK-EU travel
For British travelers, the introduction of the ETIAS marks a significant change in their ability to travel to Europe.
Before Brexit, UK citizens enjoyed visa-free travel to EU countries for short stays.
However, with the UK’s departure from the EU, British travelers need an ETIAS authorization, just like other non-EU citizens.
Similarly, the UK’s travel permit system, the UK ETA scheme, will require EU citizens to obtain one before their trip to the UK.
The UK plans to implement its UK ETA scheme for all non-visa travelers by the end of 2024 or early 2025.
These new requirements may add an extra step to the travel planning process. Still, they will enhance security and make travel safer for everyone.
British students intending to study in Europe must apply for an ETIAS before their travel dates.