ETIAS: Is the EU closing its borders?

• Posted on Aug 20, 2024
• In Industry News, Portugal, Hungary, Europe, Greece, Malta, Spain, Schengen Area

An EU residency is your ultimate passport to visa-free access across Europe.

Starting in 2025, the European Union will implement the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), transforming travel for citizens from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other non-EU countries. This new system introduces a pre-approval process to enhance security while maintaining streamlined border control.

New Border and Security Measures

The EU is not closing its borders but is setting a framework to manage who can enter its territory. ETIAS and the Entry/Exit System (EES) underscore the EU’s commitment to secure borders while welcoming legitimate travelers.

ETIAS Requirements

Beginning in 2025, travelers from non-EU countries, including the U.S. and U.K., must obtain ETIAS approval before entering any EU member state. This system signifies the end of unrestricted visa-free travel for these passport holders, implementing a pre-screening process to identify potential security risks.

EES Implementation

In addition to ETIAS, the EES will require all travelers, including those with Schengen visas, to submit biometric data—fingerprints and facial scans—upon entry and exit from the EU. This measure aims to enhance border security and monitor the movement of non-EU nationals effectively.

Exemptions

EU citizens and legal residents of EU countries are exempt from both ETIAS and EES. High-net-worth (HNW) travelers can maintain visa-free and privacy-focused movement within the EU by obtaining EU citizenship or residency through investment programs.

Applying for ETIAS

To apply for ETIAS, travelers must meet the following requirements:

• Valid Passport: The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen Area.
• Personal Information: Applicants must provide their full name, date of birth, nationality, and contact information.
• Security Questions: Applicants must answer questions about their health and travel history.
• Application Fee: €7 for individuals aged 18 to 70, with exemptions for those under 18 and over 70.

ETIAS vs. Schengen Visas

ETIAS is an electronic travel authorization allowing stays in the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within 180 days. Unlike Schengen visas, which are required for travelers from countries without visa-free access, ETIAS simplifies entry for eligible travelers.

Impact on Various Nationalities

ETIAS will affect travelers from several countries:

• British Citizens: Post-Brexit, British passport holders will need ETIAS to visit any Schengen country.
• American Citizens: U.S. travelers will need ETIAS approval starting in 2025.
• Australian, Brazilian, Canadian, and Japanese Citizens: Citizens from these countries will also need ETIAS authorization to enter the Schengen Zone, highlighting a shift towards regulated travel.

EU Residency: A necessity for investors

For non-European investors, ETIAS marks a significant shift. Without EU residency, travelers will now require ETIAS to enter the Schengen Zone, making residency by investment programs even more essential for ensuring unrestricted European travel as it’s the only “real” visa-free entry into Europe.

The benefits of EU residency

Securing an EU residency grants you full legal benefits within Europe, and these benefits include:

• Vise-free travel: Enjoy unrestricted travel across 27 countries within the Schengen Area.
• Business opportunities: Establish and operate your business within the EU’s stable and thriving economic landscape.
• Tax optimization: Benefit from preferential tax regimes in select countries, significantly reducing your tax obligations.
• Access to services: Gain access to essential public services, including world-class healthcare systems and top-tier educational institutions, ensuring a high standard of living for you and your family.

Available European residency by investment programs

These programs have gained popularity due to their numerous benefits, including visa-free travel within the Schengen Area without the need for ETIAS, access to quality education and healthcare, and potential pathways to citizenship:

Hungary

• Investment Requirement: minimum investment of €250,000 in select authorized real estate funds.
• Renewal: you can renew your 10-year residence for another 10 years.

Greece

• Investment Requirement: Minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate.
• Renewal: The five-year residence permit can be renewed indefinitely if the property is maintained.
• Changes: Starting September 1, 2024, the investment threshold will increase to €800,000 in popular areas.

Portugal

• Investment Requirement: Minimum investment of €500,000 in government-approved investment funds.
• Path to Citizenship: you will be eligible for citizenship after five years of residency.

Malta

• Malta Citizenship by Investment program: minimum requirement of €600,000.
• Malta Residency by Investment program: minimum requirement of €150,000.

Spain

• Investment Requirement: Minimum investment of €500,000 in real estate.
• Path to Citizenship: After ten years of residency, you may apply for citizenship.

How can Arton Assist?

At Arton Capital, we are experts in simplifying complexities and specialize in guiding you through many of the available options, ensuring a tailored and seamless journey to EU residency that perfectly aligns with your goals.
Connect with us to unlock a lifetime of benefits in Europe.