Canadians travelling to most European countries will need to apply for travel authorization beforehand, starting in 2024. This visa-like permit will be needed for travel to 30 countries Canadians previously had access to visa-free.
The European Union is looking to strengthen its border security with its new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
ETIAS is a “largely automated IT system,” the European Union says, that will help identify “potential security, irregular migration or high epidemic risks.” It was set to take effect in 2021, but has been twice delayed and is now set for 2024.
The application includes questions about level of education, current occupation, criminal convictions, and past travel to conflict zones.
Parents or guardians will need to apply separately for minors. Applicants under 18 years of age or over 70 do not have to pay the $10 fee.
The travel authorization will be linked to the applicant’s travel document and valid for three years, or until the travel document expires, whichever comes first. It allows for a stay of up to 90 days at a time within a 180-day period.
The list of countries requiring ETIAS include the 27 Schengen States, plus Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania. The Schengen States are a group of nations that have an agreement to allow free movement across their borders.
Any Canadian visiting the following countries in 2024 will need to apply for ETIAS beforehand: 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.
