Today's Article

"You'll enter your passport details. You'll enter a few security questions, maybe some questions about your trip details."

It's because of a new 3layer of European border security called the European Travel Information and Authorization System, or 4ETIAS. Citizens of the 60 or so non-EU countries that don't currently 5require a visa to enter the EU, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada will now need a6 visa waiver to enter the world's largest 7visa-free zone. That includes countries like Italy, France, Greece and Switzerland. 

"The ETIAS is basically being 8implemented to improve the safety security, and to 9strengthen their borders in this visa-free zone. So this will 10screen travelers who don't require a full visa."

Designers of the system say applications should be 11processed in minutes, the vast majority 12completed in 96 hours. But authorities from the EU caution some applicants may be asked to provide additional information or documentation or to 13participate in an interview with national authorities, which may take up to additional 30 days. 

"We recommend you do these at least 30 days 14prior to your travel." 

That's why it's advised not to book flights or 15accommodations until 16confirmation that the application is 17approved.