The European Union delays the launch of the Etias travel authorization system, pushing the requirement for Singaporeans to 2025.
Singapore – Singaporeans traveling to Europe will not need to apply for the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (Etias) until 2025, as the European Union has delayed its launch. The new requirement was initially scheduled for 2024, but due to issues such as resource constraints and data integration problems, the EU has postponed the launch to spring 2025.
Modeled after the United States’ Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), Etias is a pre-screening system designed to enhance security by checking travelers from non-EU countries, who currently enter Europe visa-free. The system aims to minimize potential security risks.
For travelers aged 18 to 70, the application will cost €7 (S$10), while it will be free for those outside this age range. The EU has clarified that 30 countries will require the Etias document, including 27 Schengen Area countries, such as Belgium, Iceland, and the Netherlands. The United Kingdom is not part of the Schengen Area, and Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania will also require Etias.
From 2025, Singaporeans, along with citizens of 58 other countries including Malaysia, Australia, Japan, South Korea, the US, and Canada, will be required to submit an Etias application before traveling to Europe. The document, which is valid for three years, will be necessary even for travelers transiting through European countries on their way to other destinations.
Once submitted, applicants will receive an update within 96 hours on whether their application is approved, refused, or requires manual processing.
