According to SchengenVisaInfo.com, travelers from more than 60 nations, including the United States, United Kingdom, and New Zealand, who qualify for visa-free travel to the EU, will have to pay a €7 entry fee under the ETIAS system.
The ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years or until the applicant's passport expires, whichever occurs first. Additionally, as ETIAS authorizations are granted for many visits, travelers are free to use them as frequently as they like so long as they don't go over the allotted time there.
Greek Travel Pages reports that, despite the fact that, once the ETIAS is in place, the majority of applications will be processed in a matter of minutes, with applicants receiving the response in their emails immediately, those who do not receive ETIAS approval will either not be allowed to board their flights or will be turned away at the EU borders. Travel arrangements would need to be changed as a result, and refunds might be requested.
Experts in technology and travel encourage intermediaries to keep abreast of visa and entry regulations and to give consumers precise instructions, so that they are aware of the repercussions of non-compliance.
They also stress the significance of staff training and the need for clear instructions in order to achieve uniform processes and reactions.
On the other hand, industry insiders predict that unprepared travelers will result in more cancellations and refund requests, which will negatively impact the travel sector. Market experts advise organizations to choose a cost-effective payment technology that can manage disruptions in such circumstances without incurring large costs and causing delays.
Insiders in the market think that the new ETIAS rule may also open up new chances. Companies who issue travel documents may be obliged to create more specific policies with competitive pricing. Hotels can also increase their profits by charging a fee for their visa assistance services or by utilizing the relationship to increase sales of other goods.
The ETIAS system's debut has been repeatedly delayed. However, the EU officials affirmed that the system will go into operation in 2024 in February of this year. Anitta Hipper, the spokesperson for internal security, migration, and home affairs for the EU Commission, confirmed the statement.