ETIAS: The New "Digital Approval" Era for European Travel
The European Union is implementing ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) to enhance border security and digitalize travel procedures. This system, planned to come into effect in the near future, is not a type of visa but a mandatory "security pre-clearance" required before travel.
At Rona Legal, we provide consultation to help both our individual clients and corporate firms with frequently traveling personnel adapt to the ETIAS transition process.
What is ETIAS? (And What It Is Not?)
ETIAS is a system that requires travelers who have visa-free entry rights to the Schengen area (such as citizens of the USA, UK, Canada, Montenegro, etc.) to register online before their travels.
Not a Visa
No need to visit a consulate, provide fingerprints, or prepare thick files.
Fully Digital
Procedures are conducted through an online form.
Fast
95% of applications are processed within minutes.
Critical Distinction: Turkish Citizens and ETIAS
The most frequently asked question from our clients is: "ETIAS is coming, will we not need a visa anymore?" We need to clarify this confusion:
🟥 Burgundy Passport Holders
ETIAS does NOT REPLACE the Schengen Visa for Turkish citizens holding burgundy passports.
⚠️ If you are subject to visa requirements, you still need to obtain a Schengen visa.
🟩 Green (Service) Passport Holders
Turkish citizens traveling to Europe visa-free with green passports will be required to obtain ETIAS approval before travel once the system is fully active.
🌍 Dual Citizens
If you hold a passport from a non-EU country that allows visa-free entry to Europe (e.g., Montenegro, USA), you will need to obtain ETIAS when traveling with that passport.
ETIAS Technical Specifications and Fee
The current procedures that will be in effect when the system is active are as follows:
Validity Period
ETIAS approval is valid for 3 years from the date of issuance (or until passport expiry).
✅ No need to reapply for each trip.
Stay Duration
For short-term tourist/business trips of up to 90 days within 180 days.
Application Fee
A symbolic fee of €7 for adults has been set.
💡 Travelers under 18 and over 70 are exempt from the fee.
Why Should You Get Consultation?
Although ETIAS appears to be a simple form, it has an "automatic rejection" mechanism.
False Declaration Risk
Incorrectly entering information about past deportations, criminal records, or previous visa rejections can result in ETIAS rejection and being turned away at the border.
Appeal Process
If your ETIAS application is rejected, you have the right to appeal. Rona Legal analyzes the rejection reason and manages the legal appeal process.
Corporate Tracking
We provide corporate support for bulk tracking of employee travel approvals and preventing potential crises.
Application Requirements
- Valid passport (Valid for at least 3 months beyond travel completion)
- Email address
- Credit or debit card (for €7 payment)
- Personal information and travel history declaration
Don't Let Travel Issues Stop You
If you're concerned about whether you can obtain ETIAS due to past visa rejections or legal issues, contact us for a situation analysis.
Consult With Us