EU to adopt new screening system for visa-free travellers

10 Jul 2018 2093 | World Travel News

The EU has adopted the new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), a pre-authorisation requirement for visa-exempt third-country nationals planning to travel to the Schengen area.

Scheduled to come into effect in 2021, ETIAS assesses who is entering the EU, from where and if they pose a risk to EU security.

Pre-travel authorisation will cost seven euros for those age 18-70; Prague Airport pictured

The enforcement is said to be aimed at easing travel to the EU and simplifying border checks.

In a statement congratulating EU on the move, WTTC said it welcomes how the needs of travel and tourism were taken into account while also ensuring enhanced EU security.

During negotiations, WTTC had stressed the importance of the process to be made as easy as possible for legitimate travellers.

In addition to the ease of process, WTTC also advocated for the fees to remain at a reasonable level, one that does not discourage travellers from coming to Europe. The final fee of seven euros (US$8.20) meets this balance, WTTC said.