06-11-2022
Once the EU visa waiver is introduced in November 2023, a mobile app for ETIAS will be developed to significantly simplify the application procedure for third-country people travelling to the European Union.
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is being implemented to improve border security while still allowing simple access to Europe.
As a result, the ETIAS application procedure is entirely electronic, with no need to leave the house to attend an interview or submit documentation in person at an embassy or consulate.
The EU has hinted that an ETIAS mobile app, in addition to a dedicated website, will be established to expedite the process of getting the visa waiver.
While the internet is the simplest and most convenient method to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver, a mobile app may be handy for travellers on the go or those without access to a laptop or PC.
Because the ETIAS mobile app has not yet been launched, specifics are presently unavailable. This article describes what we know so far about the programme, including the release date and how to utilise it to access ETIAS.
WHEN WILL THE ETIAS MOBILE APP BE AVAILABLE?
The mobile app has yet to be released, but it should be ready for download by the time ETIAS is released.
The ETIAS start date is presently set for November 2023, according to European Union authorities. The launch date has been pushed back because additional time was deemed necessary to guarantee a smooth transition to the new system.
The ETIAS mobile application’s launch date, on the other hand, remains unknown.
The topic was raised at the 16th edition of the eu-LISAIndustry Roundtable, “EES and ETIAS – Getting Ready for Operation.“
Two types of ETIAS apps were explored during the event: one for visa-exempt third-country people to register before travelling to Europe, and one for carriers to query EES and ETIAS before departure.
APPLYING FOR ETIAS THROUGH THE WEBSITE AND MOBILE APP
Non-EU nationals should ensure they fulfil the ETIAS standards and have all relevant information before commencing the application procedure.
The ETIAS application process is entirely online; all information is submitted electronically, and the visa waiver itself is digitally linked to the passport.
One way ETIAS differs from ESTA and other visa waiver programmes is the ability to apply through mobile app. While ETIAS and ESTA have many similarities, travel authorization for the United States may only be obtained on the internet; no mobile app has been created for this purpose.
Although an ETIAS mobile app will be released, it is envisaged that once the system is operational, the majority of eligible foreigners would register through the internet. The application requires only a laptop or PC and internet connectivity, and it can be finished in a matter of minutes.
WHAT INFORMATION IS REQUIRED TO APPLY FOR ETIAS USING THE MOBILE APP?
Passport holders must supply the same information whether they apply through mobile app or internet. In either event, the ETIAS data protection policy will apply to all information given.
Article 17 of the ETIAS rule specifies the information that travellers must supply, which includes:
Parents and guardians seeking for ETIAS for a minor should fill out the form on the kid’s behalf and declare their relationship to the child.
Travelers who use the mobile app should take extra caution when filling out the ETIAS application form. It is typically more difficult to detect faults on a mobile phone screen, particularly spelling blunders and wrong figures. Incorrect data provided at this step may result in delays or perhaps ETIAS denial.
Payment of the ETIAS fees is completed online using a credit or debit card to finish the transaction.
WHO CAN APPLY USING THE ETIAS MOBILE APP?
Anyone applying from home or their workplace should do so through the internet, which is the most convenient alternative and can be finished in minutes.
The ETIAS mobile app is handy for people who need to seek a permit while on the go and do not have access to a laptop or desktop computer.
Tourists travelling by bus, for example, who will cross a Schengen Area external border as part of their journey, can apply for ETIAS using the mobile app if they have not already done so on the internet before to departure.
The ETIAS mobile app may also be handy for business travellers who have meetings or conferences in a Schengen country. They may receive the permission while on the go by utilising the ETIAS mobile app.
A smartphone app will also enable unplanned journeys to any of the ETIAS nations. Tourists visiting several locations on the same trip can add European destinations to their itinerary by getting the necessary European travel authorization via the ETIAS mobile app wherever they are in the globe.
WHAT LANGUAGES IS THE ETIAS MOBILE APP AVAILABLE IN?
Because ETIAS will be required by people from over 50 countries, it is critical that the website and mobile app be available in several languages and understood by all applicants.
As a result, article 16 of the ETIAS rule states:
The public website and mobile app must be available in all official languages of the Member States.
As a result, travellers should be able to access the form in a language they are acquainted with. Factsheets and step-by-step guidelines for utilising the various application platforms will also be made available in a variety of languages.
HOW TO DOWNLOAD THE ETIAS MOBILE APP
The ETIAS mobile app’s details have not been finalised, with further information expected closer to the release date.
Nonetheless, the programme is expected to be available from all major app shops. The ETIAS mobile app will work on both Android and Apple smartphones.
The ETIAS mobile app will be downloaded to the smartphone from the appropriate store. When the process is finished, an icon will appear on the screen from which the programme may be accessed.