After years of announcements and delays, the ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is finally approaching implementation. However, confusion remains about when it will apply and who it will affect, especially among CBI passport holders. Here is what we know so far.
What Is ETIAS?
ETIAS is a pre-travel authorization system introduced by the European Union. It is not a visa, but an electronic authorization required before travel for nationals of countries that currently enjoy visa-free access to the Schengen Area.
It is comparable to the ESTA used by the United States or ETA systems used by the UK and other countries.
When Will ETIAS Start?
This is where most of the confusion comes from.
Technical launch:
The EU currently plans to launch ETIAS in the last quarter of 2026 (Q4 2026).
Real-world obligation:
After launch, there will be a transition / grace period, during which travelers may still be allowed to enter without an ETIAS, although applications will be encouraged.
In practice, ETIAS is expected to become fully mandatory in 2027.
Who Needs ETIAS?
ETIAS applies to travelers who:
Are nationals of visa-exempt countries
Intend to visit Schengen or associated European states
Are traveling for short stays (up to 90 days within 180 days)
This includes citizens of countries such as:
United States
Canada
United Kingdom
Australia
And many CBI jurisdictions
How to Obtain an ETIAS Authorization
Applying for an ETIAS authorization will be a fully digital process, designed to be simple for most travelers, including CBI passport holders.
Step 1: Online Application
Travelers will complete an application through the official EU ETIAS website or mobile app. The process is expected to take 10–15 minutes.
Applicants will need:
A valid biometric passport from an ETIAS-eligible country
Personal information (name, date of birth, nationality)
Passport details
Contact information
Basic travel intentions (first country of entry)
Answers to security, health, and migration-related questions
Step 2: Automated Screening
Most applications will be processed automatically within minutes.
The ETIAS system will cross-check data against:
EU security databases
Interpol and border management systems
Watchlists related to security, migration, and public health risks
For the vast majority of applicants, approval is expected to be near-instant.
Step 3: Manual Review (If Applicable)
Some applications, including those involving:
Multiple citizenships
Recent passport changes
Complex travel or residence histories
may be flagged for manual review by EU authorities.
In such cases:
Processing may take several days
Additional clarification may be requested
A refusal remains possible but is expected to be exceptional
Step 4: Validity and Cost
Cost: approximately €7 (free for minors and seniors, as currently planned)
Validity: up to 3 years, or until passport expiry (whichever comes first)
Multiple entries: allowed during the validity period
Linked electronically to the passport (no physical document required)
What Does This Mean for CBI Citizens?
For holders of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) passports, ETIAS does not change visa-free status, but it does introduce new layers of scrutiny.
Key implications:
CBI passports are not exempt
If a CBI country is visa-free today, its citizens will still need ETIAS once it becomes mandatory.
Pre-screening before travel
Travelers will submit personal, travel, and background information before boarding. This includes security and migration risk checks.
