About ETIAS
ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization system scheduled for introduction in 2026, targeting visa-exempt country nationals visiting the EU as a streamlined entry authorization system. The ETIAS visa allows visits to the EU (European Union) for tourism, business, academic activities, and other purposes.
Features
Electronic Approval: ETIAS visa can be applied for online with a simple approval process without document submission.
Short-term Stay: Allows stays of up to 90 days with multiple entries permitted.
Passport Requirements: ETIAS applicants must have a valid passport; e-passport holders have an advantage.
Visa-Exempt Countries: ETIAS targets nationals of visa-exempt countries, and only residents of eligible countries can apply.
Advantages
Simple Application Process: ETIAS visa can be applied for online with simple approval without document submission.
Fast Processing Time: Allows stays of up to 90 days with multiple entries permitted.
Cost Savings: ETIAS applicants enjoy lower fees compared to traditional visas.
Ideal for Visa-Exempt Countries: An ideal choice for visa-exempt country citizens who frequently visit the EU.
Tourist Visa (Schengen Visa)
The Tourist Visa (Schengen visa) is a traditional visa issued to foreigners visiting the EU for tourism purposes.
This visa grants the right to enter the EU for tourism, family visits, medical services, and other purposes.
Features
Document Submission Required: EU tourist visa requires multiple documents including passport, travel plan, financial proof, and stay duration verification.
Stay Duration: Usually allows 90 days of stay, with longer stays possible in special cases.
Various Purposes: Can be applied for various purposes including tourism, business meetings, and medical treatment.
Visa Issuance Time: Takes at least 15 days, and more complex cases may take over 2 weeks.
Advantages
Stay Permitted: Citizens of visa-required countries must apply for a tourist visa to visit the 26 countries within the Schengen tourist area.
Multiple Purposes Allowed: Can be used for various purposes beyond tourism, including business, study, and medical visits.
ETIAS vs Tourist Visa Comparison
| Category | ETIAS | EU Tourist Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Application Process | Simple online | Online + document submission |
| Cost | 7 euros | 60-80 euros |
| Approval Time | Within minutes | 5-10 days |
| Validity Period | 3 years (varies by passport validity) | Up to 90 days (within 180 days) |
| Countries Available | 30 countries (including 26 Schengen) | 26 Schengen countries |
| Reapplication After Rejection | Simple reapplication possible | Reapplication depends on rejection reason |
| Entry Restriction | Visa-exempt country citizens only (60 countries) | Visa-required country citizens can also apply |
| Stay Duration | Up to 90 days (re-entry possible) | Up to 90 days (within 180 days) |
Conclusion
EU Travel Visa ETIAS can be applied for quickly and easily, making it especially suitable for travelers residing in visa-exempt countries. The application process is streamlined, costs are lower, and it is advantageous for urgent EU visits.
Tourist Visa (Schengen visa) is required for those who are not citizens of visa-exempt countries, involving document submission and interviews in a longer application process. Also, visa approval takes time, and the stay is limited to 90 days. If you are a visa-exempt country citizen, ETIAS is the more convenient and economical choice, while visa-required country citizens must obtain a Tourist Visa (Schengen visa).