EU: ETIAS Implementation Delayed
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), a new electronic travel permit introduced by the European Union for travelers from visa-exempt countries such as the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia, has been officially postponed until 2027.
Originally expected to be operational sooner, the delay comes as a result of technical hurdles and implementation issues related to the broader Entry/Exit System (EES), which is designed to replace manual passport stamping with an automated biometric system at border crossings. EES at the Schengen area's external borders has already caused considerable delays, sometimes resulting in wait times of several hours. To prevent further congestion at border crossings and to allow both authorities and travelers additional time for preparation, the EU has decided to delay the launch of ETIAS until 2027.
For business travelers, this means that although the implementation of the new travel authorization has been pushed back, they should still anticipate potentially longer queues when entering the EU due to the ongoing EES system.
Once implemented, ETIAS will function providing a quick digital approval process for short-term visits of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It will require a simple online application, a nominal fee of about 7 Euros, and will be valid for three years or until the traveler’s passport expires.