Starting in 2025, travellers from over 50 countries, including Australia and New Zealand, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) visa waiver to enter the Schengen Area, even if just in transit.
The Schengen Area consists of 27 European nations, such as Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Malta, and Spain, which have eliminated internal border controls and standardised entry requirements, allowing visitors to move freely between them.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is an electronic travel authorisation, similar to the U.S. ESTA, for non-EU citizens visiting any Schengen country.
How long is it valid?
The ETIAS visa waiver is valid for short-term stays of up to 90 days for business or leisure. Once approved, it remains valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
How do you apply?
To apply, you’ll need a valid passport, an email address, and a credit or debit card to pay the €7 (approximately A$12) processing fee. ETIAS applications are processed quickly online via an automated system and don’t require biometric data. Most approvals are granted within minutes, though in rare cases, it could take up to a month.
What is the Schengen Area?
The Schengen Area is made up of 27 European countries with common border rules. It lets travellers move freely between member countries without
- going through border controls
- getting a visa for each country.
The members of the Schengen Area are:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- The Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
For more information on ETIAS, you can visit the links below, or speak to one of Zeppelin Travel’s consultants on 1300 786 888:
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/before-you-go/the-basics/schengen
https://etias.com/etias-requirements/etias-for-australian-citizens
