British tourists won't be required to pay an entrance fee to Europe until 2024, following a postponement to the scheme introduced to create charges. The launch date of the Etias (European Travel Information and Authorization System) programme has been modified by the Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs at the European Commission in Brussels.
According to the plan, non-EU citizens—including Britons—who do not need visas will have to pay £7 to enter the Schengen Area. The system's goals include improving EU nation security, keeping an eye on visitors, and minimising traveller delays.
The EU Commission hasn’t given a date or a month when the scheme will be introduced but only says that it will be launched next year.
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Under the ETIAS FAQs section on the EU Commission's website, it states: “It is expected that the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be operational in 2024.”
The EU Commission has not explained why there is a delay to the ETIAS scheme. But this does mean that UK holidaymakers will be able to visit the EU without paying the £7 for the rest of the year at least.
Under the ETIAS scheme Brits will need to apply for the digital visa waiver before they enter the EU. It will be required for all EU-member countries, including popular holiday destinations such as Spain, France and Portugal.
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