Starting in the next year, the Schengen countries start implementing a new entry system, which is an electronic travel permit, as citizens of the 60 countries that are not members of the European Union who do not currently need visas, including the UAE, have to apply for On "Itas" before traveling to member countries, this system will be implemented in 2021, and the application will be executed online in less than 20 minutes.
The website of the "Itas" system stated that the new system was designed to increase security by collecting, following up and updating the necessary information for visitors without a visa to the Schengen area. At the same time, the system is supposed to reduce the procedures and waiting times related to applying for a travel permit in Europe and the Schengen area, and will include a quick and detailed security review to identify any individuals who pose a threat to the countries of the Schengen area and prevent them from entering.
The site pointed out that "Itas" is not a visa, but rather a travel permit aimed at a quick and effective review of individuals wishing to visit the Schengen area.
The "Itas" system targets citizens of the 60 countries who are currently allowed to travel without a visa within the European Union, while citizens of European Union countries will not be obligated to apply for "Itas", as they are entitled to freedom of movement within the region, and citizens of countries outside the union will not be required Those holding valid residence cards by applying for "Itas" to travel to other countries within the region.
The site stated that the new system will achieve savings in time and effort through prompt and effective request procedures, improving border management, completing the European Union visa liberalization policy, helping to prevent illegal immigration, and helping to strengthen the fight against crime and terrorism.
It is noteworthy that Schengen visas allow visitors to travel within the entire region without the need to re-apply for a visa for each country, as well as 60 countries outside the European Union are allowed to stay for 90 days in Europe without the need to apply for a visa at all.
The site explained that citizens of the 60 countries that are not members of the European Union who do not currently need visas, must apply for ETIAS before traveling to member states.
Applicants will have to provide personal data such as name, last name, maiden name, date of birth, and place of birth, and other required information will include the status of current citizenship, address, email, phone, education, job experience and country they intend to visit first.
Other important information will also include matters such as questions about background and eligibility, medical details, information about time spent in any war zone, previous deportations and criminal records.
Legal guardian
ETIAS requires minors to complete the application by a legal guardian, and family members from other countries in the Schengen area will need to provide proof of kinship and residence card, in addition to other background information.
ETIAS has a validity period of three years or until the expiry date of the travel document used in the application, whichever is earlier, and ETIAS will normally allow residence for up to 90 days within the region.
The request price is currently set at a cost of seven euros, and for applicants aged 17 years or less, they will not be charged any fees.
2021 system implementation .. implementation online in 20 minutes.