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European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) Germany
Immigration lawyer explains the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).
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what the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is
how the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) works
legal background to ETIAS
ETIAS and digitalization
1. What is the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)?
2. How does the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) work?
3. ETIAS and digitalization
4. ETIAS comparison with other countries
5. FAQ ETIAS
6. Conclusion ETIAS
1. What is the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)?
ETIAS is the European Travel Information and Authorization System for third-country nationals who do not require a visa for short stays of up to 90 days (so-called positive nationals ). ETIAS is expected to launch in 2026, after the EU introduces the EES . ETIAS was introduced by Regulation (EU) 2018/1240 and is used to conduct security screening of visa-exempt travelers wishing to enter the Schengen Area. ETIAS is also intended, in particular, to contribute to the early identification of public security risks and to prevent illegal migration. The goal of ETIAS is to ensure a high level of internal security in Europe.
The system automatically checks applications against multiple EU databases before entry and enables an initial security clearance before departure. Applications can be submitted after the system's launch via the official ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile app. The authorization is valid for multiple entries within a three-year period and costs €7. Exceptions apply, among others, to holders of EU residence permits or diplomatic passports.
2. How does the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) work?
Travelers must apply for an ETIAS authorization online before entering the Schengen area. They must provide information about their identity, travel documents, place of residence, occupation, educational background, as well as information about previous stays, return decisions, or criminal records. The decision is made automatically, usually within a few minutes, but no later than 96 hours.
In exceptional cases, the process can take up to 30 days, for example, if additional documents are requested. If the application is approved, the travel authorization is valid for up to three years or until the expiration of the travel document. If approval is denied, applicants have the right to appeal within the respective EU member state. It is also possible to apply for a geographically limited ETIAS authorization for humanitarian reasons.
3. ETIAS and digitalization
ETIAS is a key component of the digitalization of European border management . It was developed by the EU agency eu-LISA (European Agency for the Operational Management of Large-Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice), which already manages other major IT systems such as the Schengen Information System (SIS) and the Visa Information System (VIS) (see our VISAGUARD guide on data protection for third-country nationals in Germany ).
According to its design, ETIAS runs complex comparisons with systems such as the EES, SIS, VIS, and Europol . The system thus takes over a task that is already partially performed by human employees during security checks in the visa process. This digital networking enables faster, more efficient, and more secure border controls. At the same time, data protection and fundamental rights were explicitly considered in the design of the system, for example, through clearly defined retention periods and control mechanisms for data processing.
4. ETIAS in international comparison
ETIAS is not the first system of its kind. Similar regulations already exist in the United States ( ESTA ) and Canada ( eTA ). These systems also serve to conduct security screening of visa-exempt travelers prior to entry and are fully digitalized. Nevertheless, the data processing methods of the American ESTA and the Canadian eTA have repeatedly been the subject of criticism.
In contrast to ESTA or eTA, ETIAS therefore places particular emphasis on data protection and interoperability within the EU infrastructure. Integration into existing EU databases such as the SIS or the EES ensures deeper connectivity and greater control. This distinguishes ETIAS not only technically but also structurally from comparable systems in other countries.
5. FAQ ETIAS
When does ETIAS come into force?
ETIAS is expected to enter into force at the end of 2026.
Who needs an ETIAS authorization?
All third-country nationals traveling visa-free to the Schengen Area or Cyprus require an ETIAS authorization – with the exception of certain groups of persons, such as holders of EU residence permits or diplomatic passports.
How much does the application cost and how long is ETIAS valid?
The ETIAS authorization costs €7 and is valid for three years or until the expiration of the travel document. Multiple entries are possible within this period.
6. Conclusion ETIAS
ETIAS will become a central element of the new security architecture at the EU's external borders once it enters into force. The system is designed to identify risks early and increase security for all member states – without introducing a visa procedure. By digitizing the application process and automating the review of security databases, ETIAS enables effective pre-screening. For visa-exempt travelers, access to the EU will become more transparent, but also more regulated. VISAGUARD provides comprehensive information about ETIAS and your rights in the event of a rejection.