Starting next year, individuals from Singapore and Malaysia who intend to visit European Union (EU) or Schengen member countries will need to acquire an essential online document called the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). The implementation of ETIAS is a prerequisite for their travel plans.
ETIAS, an obligatory authorization, will be digitally connected to the traveler’s passport and will remain valid for a duration of three years or until the passport’s expiration date, as mentioned on the official ETIAS website.
What Is ETIAS?
ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorization System. It is an online system developed by the European Union (EU) to pre-screen travelers from visa-exempt countries before their arrival in the EU or Schengen member countries. ETIAS aims to enhance security and border control while facilitating legitimate travel.
ETIAS functions as a mandatory authorization that travelers from visa-exempt countries, such as Singapore and Malaysia, must obtain before their trip to the EU or Schengen area. It involves an online application process where travelers provide their personal information, travel details, and undergo security checks.
Once approved, ETIAS is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport and remains valid for a period of three years or until the expiration date of the passport, whichever comes first. It enables multiple entries within its validity period, allowing travelers to visit the EU or Schengen countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit purposes.
ETIAS: Recording Entry and Exit
It is important to mention here that the ETIAS has been designed to maintain records of individuals entering and leaving the Schengen Zone. It is important to note that ETIAS is not a visa requirement and does not guarantee automatic entry upon arrival.
Border guards will continue to verify passports and other relevant documents to ensure compliance with entry conditions.
The Schengen zone encompasses 27 European countries that have abolished passport and other border control requirements at their mutual borders, facilitating seamless travel within the region.
ETIAS: Duration of Stay and Eligibility
Once obtained, an ETIAS allows Malaysian and Singaporean citizens to stay in Europe for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.
Application Process and Fee
To apply for ETIAS, applicants between the ages of 18 and 70 from Singapore and Malaysia must complete an online application and pay a fee of €7 (RM36, S$10). The entire process can be done online, eliminating the need for appointments or visits to embassies.
Minors and applicants over the age of 70 will receive an ETIAS free of charge. The EU aims to process most applications within minutes, though some decisions may take up to four days.
ETIAS Travel Authorization Requirement: EU Countries List
Starting next year, the following EU countries will require ETIAS travel authorization:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
Visa Exemption for Malaysia and Singapore
Both Malaysia and Singapore are among the 63 nations exempt from visa requirements when entering most European countries.
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