August 21st 2024.
Attention all Australians looking to travel to Europe! You may have heard about the new visa requirements that will soon be in place for some of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Well, we now have more details on this new travel authorisation, known as ETIAS.
For those who may not be familiar, ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System, and it will function similarly to the US visa waiver system, ESTA. This means that citizens from 60 countries, including Australia, who previously did not need a visa to enter Europe, will now need to obtain this travel authorisation in order to visit 30 specific European countries for holiday purposes.
Some of the countries that will require ETIAS include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, and more. But don't worry, Aussies, you are not alone in this. Citizens from other countries such as the UK, US, and New Zealand will also need to obtain ETIAS. The official website states that ETIAS will start in early 2025, and will be valid for up to three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.
Now, you may be wondering about the cost of this new travel authorisation. Well, the good news is that it will only cost seven euros, which is just under $12 in Australian dollars. And there are some exemptions, such as those under 18 or over 70 years old, as well as family members of EU citizens or those with the right to freely move within the European Union.
The application process will be done online through the official ETIAS website or app. Most applications are processed within minutes, but in some cases, it may take up to four days. You may also be asked for additional information or even be required to attend an interview, although this is rare.
It's important to note that you can only stay in Europe for 90 days out of 180 days, just like before. And border guards will still have the final say on whether or not you are allowed to enter. So make sure to plan ahead and apply for ETIAS well in advance before your trip.
When applying for ETIAS, you will be required to provide a lot of information, including your personal details, travel plans, and any criminal convictions. This may seem like a lot, but it's all part of the process to ensure the safety and security of everyone traveling to Europe.
In conclusion, it's important for Australians to be aware of the new ETIAS requirements when planning a trip to Europe. But don't let this discourage you from exploring the beautiful countries that make up this continent. Just remember to apply for ETIAS and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Safe travels!
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