Are You a Canadian Visiting Europe? You Will Soon Need a Permit Instead of a Visa - Here’s Why

 As the European Union works to improve border security, Canadians who want to travel to Europe in 2024 will need to pay for a travel permit rather than a visa.

Starting in 2024, holders of Canadian passports who intend to travel to any of these 30 European nations for up to 90 days in a 180-day period must submit an online application to the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).

At the moment, Canadian nationals are permitted to travel to and stay in Europe for up to three months without a visa or travel document.

However, a visa is necessary if their stay is more than 90 days.

Beginning the following year, Canadian tourists will have to complete a form containing their personal data, information about their travel documents, their level of education and current employment, information about the expected stay, and information about any criminal convictions.

ETIAS application fees are $10.

Seniors above the age of 70 and children under the age of 18 are exempt from paying the fee. Families of EU citizens and non-EU nationals with free movement rights within the EU are likewise excluded from paying this fee.

Most candidates will be able to obtain the permission reasonably quickly, however certain applications may require more time.

"Please note that this period could be extended by up to 14 days if you are requested to provide additional information or documentation, or up to 30 days if you are invited to an interview," the EU has cautioned on the official ETIAS website.

According to the EU, applications may also be refused and the reasons for the rejection informed through email; however, unsuccessful applicants may appeal the decision.

Nearly 1.4 billion passengers from more than 60 countries who are not required to obtain a visa in order to enter Europe would be impacted by the new initiative, which was approved by the European Council in 2018.

Depending on which occurs first, the ETIAS travel permission can last up to three years or until the passport expires.

According to Frontex, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, "ETIAS will further strengthen Europe's internal security by carrying out pre-travel screening of visa-free travellers to determine whether they pose a security, illegal immigration, or public health risk."

The introduction of the ETIAS has seen numerous delays since it was approved. It is now anticipated to debut in 2024.

source: https://globalnews.ca/news/9854943/canada-europe-travel-authorization/