UK travellers will not need to pay for a visa waiver to enter the EU until at least 2024 as the scheme has been delayed. The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is now expected to launch in 2024.
Under the scheme non-EU nationals who do not need a visa, including Brits, will have to pay £7 to enter the Schengen Area. The system is designed to increase security of EU countries, monitor visitors and reduce delays for travellers.
The EU Commission hasn’t given a date or a month when the scheme will be introduced but only says that it will be launched next year. Under the ETIAS FAQs section on the EU Commission's website, it states: “It is expected that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be operational in 2024.”
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The EU Commission has not explained why there is a delay to the ETIAS scheme. But this does mean that UK holidaymakers will be able to visit the EU without paying the £7 for the rest of the year at least.
Under the ETIAS scheme Brits will need to apply for the digital visa waiver before they enter the EU. It will be required for all EU-member countries, including popular holiday destinations such as Spain, France and Portugal.
The EU Commission has been contacted by the Manchester Evening News for more information.
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