The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is due to take effect in late 2022 and will become mandatory for all travelers visiting the Schengen Zone in 2023.
It was designed to be fast and straightforward, making it easy for travelers to submit their details and for the system to process them. But can you complete your ETIAS application using your mobile phone? Is there an ETIAS mobile app?
ETIAS on Mobile Devices
The ETIAS mobile application, like the system itself, is currently under development. It is expected to make an appearance, though, and could be ready for the launch of the program in 2022 to 2023.
The vast majority of internet users prefer using their mobile devices and so it seems likely that there will be an emphasis on mobile app development. What this will look like and when it will be ready is anyone’s guess but considering the amount of time that the ETIAS has been in development and the money that is being spent on it, it’s fair to assume that the app will be well designed and easy to use.
Can I Use A Smartphone for ETIAS?
Even before the mobile app is developed, you can still use your phone to complete your ETIAS application.
ETIAS is an online program and all applicants are required to have a secure internet connection, as well as an email address. You can complete your application by visiting the ETIAS website on your mobile browser and then entering the required information.
You will be asked for some basic personal and travel information, including:
- Your name
- Your date of birth
- Your home address
- Your email address
- Your passport number
- Your intended destination
Once granted, the ETIAS visa waiver will be valid for 3 years or until the associated passport expires. It can be used to visit the Schengen Zone for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This means that if you spend three months in the region then you must return home and wait another 3 months before you can return.
Alternatively, you can visit for two months, return home for a few days or weeks, and then re-visit the Schengen Zone for another month.
Do I Need to Show My Smartphone?
In the last few years, electronic boarding passes and vaccination certificates have become a common sight at border checkpoints. Simply flash the QR code/barcode on your phone and then walk through the checkpoint.
There is no need to do this with your ETIAS, however. It is an electronic authorization because it exists in the ETIAS system and not because you need to show your phone to the border guards.
As soon as an ETIAS authorization has been granted, it will be tied to your passport and when that document is scanned by the border security offices, they will see whether you have authorization or not.
You may still need to take your phone (or printed documents) to show your boarding pass and COVID status, but for the ETIAS, it’s all integrated into your passport.
