Through this arrangement, visitors from outside the Schengen region must pay a visa exemption fee in order to access nations that are part of the Schengen region. Many tourists, notably those from the US and the UK, are predicted to be impacted by this decision.
The new travel permission system, called ETIAS (European Travel Information and permission System), will go into effect in 2024.
Similar to the ESTA visa exemption program in the United States, where visitors must pre-register their passports for entry, the system requires that tourists do so.
Once authorized, the ETIAS permission is valid for three years or until the expiration of the passport.
This authorization will cost you 7 EUR.
The majority of travelers with American and British passports will be impacted by this move. Notably, 41% of all international passengers leaving Keflavk International Airport in 2022 were holidaymakers.
The chairman of the Iceland Tourist Industry Association, Jóhannes ór Sklason, thinks that the new plan won't have a significant impact on how many Americans and Britons travel to Iceland.
Consequences for Travelers
This new method involves an extra step and expense for many of us tourists, notably those from the US and the UK, while we're organizing our journeys to Iceland and other Schengen nations. To ensure a smoother travel experience for everyone, it's crucial to keep in mind that such measures are frequently implemented to improve security and streamline the admission procedure.
Recognizing ETIAS
Iceland and the other Schengen nations will begin using the new travel permission system, called the European Travel Information and permission System (ETIAS), in 2024. This system is intended to control non-Schengen traveler entry, assuring increased security and efficient entry procedures.
How ETIAS Compares to Other Systems: The U.S. ESTA program's visa exemption policy is similar to the ETIAS system. Travelers must pre-register their passports with ESTA in order to enter the country. Similar to ETIAS, pre-registration will be necessary for travelers.
Authenticity and Fee Schedule
The ETIAS authorisation is only valid for three years after the passenger receives it, or until the expiration of their passport, whichever comes first. This authorisation is subject to a 7 EUR cost. This price is a visa exemption charge, therefore visitors will still have to pay it in order to enter the country.
Effects on Particular Tourist Groups
ETIAS will mostly affect travelers from non-Schengen nations, particularly those with British and American passports. To put this into context, 41% of all international passengers flying out of Keflavk International Airport in 2022 were tourists from the US and the UK.
Sectoral Perspective
The chairman of the Iceland Tourist Industry Association, Jóhannes ór Sklason, commented on the situation. Although the system would impose a new cost on some visitors, he said he doesn't expect a noticeably lower number of Americans and Britons traveling to Iceland. This attitude implies that despite the added cost, travelers will be drawn to Iceland by its distinctive attraction.
Although some visitors may view the implementation of the ETIAS system as an additional burden, it is a step in the direction of guaranteeing safer and more orderly travel inside the Schengen area. Let's not lose sight of Iceland's amazing beauty and distinctive experiences while we adjust to these changes. And if you're thinking about visiting this beautiful nation, why not go at your own pace? From Campervan Reykjavik, you may rent a caravan and go out on an amazing tour across the Icelandic countryside. Travel safely!