The last thing students want for an exciting study abroad adventure in Europe is to be turned away at the airport.
Starting next year, that could be a reality for many international students who are not prepared for new travel requirements.
On August 1st, the European Union (EU) released a primer for students on the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization (ETIAS) that will change how visitors from visa-free countries enter the region.
A digital gateway to Europe
Set to launch in the first half of 2025, the ETIAS will act as a digital gatekeeper for travelers from countries that do not need a visa to enter the EU.
It is similar to systems already in place for other popular destinations like the United States, Canada, and Australia.
The ETIAS is a quick background check before a traveler boards their flight.
It is not as complicated as getting a visa, but it is an extra step that students and other travelers will need to complete before their European adventure can begin.
Where and when ETIAS is required
Starting next year, ETIAS will be required for entry into 30 European countries.
This includes the 29 countries in the Schengen Area, which allows free movement between its members, plus Cyprus.
Anyone planning to study in any of these countries for up to 90 days will need to get their ETIAS before they leave home.
The EU Commission has made it clear in its primer:
“With a valid ETIAS travel authorization, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays – normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry.”
This means that even with an ETIAS, border officials still have the final say on whether a traveler can enter the country. However, having one is a necessary first step.
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Applying for ETIAS
Getting an ETIAS is designed to be a straightforward process. Here is what applicants need:
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A valid passport (not older than 10 years and valid for at least three months beyond the planned stay)
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An email address
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A debit or credit card to pay the €7 fee
The application is done online through the official ETIAS website.
It is important to note that there is only one official site, and students should be wary of scams or unofficial websites offering ETIAS services.
Once approved, an ETIAS is valid for three years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.
This means the traveler can use it for multiple trips to Europe during that time, whether for study, tourism, or business.
Longer studies and visa requirements
If a study program is longer than 90 days, ETIAS will not be enough. The student will need to apply for a student visa instead.
Each country has its own visa application process, so it is important to check with the embassy or consulate of the country where the student plans to study.
Meanwhile, students with visas that are about to expire can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 more days without leaving and coming back.
However, there is a catch – they need both a valid ETIAS and to be registered in the Entry/Exit System (EES).
The EES is another new system that will be launching soon. It will keep track of when and where travelers enter and leave the Schengen Area.
It is like a digital stamp in a passport, recording a traveler’s entries and exits.
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Why the change?
The main reason for Europe introducing these new systems is security.
By collecting information about travelers before they arrive, authorities can better manage who is coming into the Schengen Area and identify potential risks.
However, it is not just about security. These systems will also make border crossings smoother for most travelers.
With the information already processed, the lines at passport control should move faster.
What students need to know
For students planning to study in Europe, here are the key things to remember:
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Check if the country of origin is on the visa-free list. If it is, the student will need ETIAS for stays up to 90 days.
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Apply for ETIAS well before the trip. While the application process is usually quick, it is better to be safe than sorry.
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For studies longer than 90 days, the student will still need a student visa.
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Be careful of scams. Students must use the official ETIAS website to apply.
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Keep track of the length of stay. Overstaying can lead to serious consequences.
Looking ahead
As 2025 approaches, it is crucial for students and educational institutions to prepare for these changes.
Universities might need to update their information for international students, and study abroad programs will need to factor in the ETIAS application process.
The introduction of ETIAS and EES represents a significant shift in how Europe manages its borders For students, it is an extra step in the journey, but one that promises to make travel more secure and potentially smoother in the long run.