As 2025 approaches, the travel landscape for non-EU citizens visiting the Schengen Area, including France, is set to change with the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). If you are planning on moving to France or are already living in France as an expat, understanding the difference between ETIAS and a French visa is crucial. Let us guide you through who needs to apply for ETIAS, who is exempt, and provide practical example to help clarify these new regulations.
What is ETIAS and who needs it?
ETIAS is a new travel authorisation system that will come into effect on the 1st January 2025. It is NOT a visa but a mandatory requirement for non-EU citizens who wish to enter the Schengen Area for short stays. ETIAS is designed to enhance security by pre-screening travellers before they arrive, ensuring compliance with Schengen rules.
Who needs to apply for ETIAS?
- Non-EU citizens who do not have a visa or residency permit and plan to stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Travellers entering France or any other Schengen country for tourism, business, or short-term study purposes.
- Citizens from visa-exempt countries (such as US, Canada, Australia) who currently do not need a visa to enter the Schengen Area but will require ETIAS from 2025 onwards.
Who doesn't need ETIAS?
You do not need ETIAS if:
- You are an EU citizen or have a valid residency card from an EU country.
- You hold a valid French visa for long-term stays (more than 90 days) or for specific purposes like work, study or family reunification.
- You are a non-EU citizen with an active Schengen visa or residency permit in any Schengen country, including France.
Practical examples: Do I need ETIAS or a French Visa?
To make it easier to understand whether you need to apply for ETIAS, here are some practical examples
Example 1: I have a valid French visa for work. Do I need ETIAS?
No. If you hold a valid French Visa, ETIAS is not required. Your visa already grants you permission to enter and stay in France for the duration specified on your visa.
Example 2: I am currently applying for a French visa and need to visit France to purchase a property. Do I need ETIAS?
YES. If your visa application is still in progress and you need to travel to France before it is approved, you will need to apply for ETIAS for your short-term visit.
Example 3: I am a non-EU citizen living in France with a valid residency permit. Do I need ETIAS to travel within the Schengen Area?
No. Your residency permit allows you to travel freely within the Schengen Area, so ETIAS is not necessary.
Example 4: I am a US citizen planning to spend two weeks in France for a holiday. Do I need ETIAS?
Yes. Starting in 2025, US citizens (or other visa-exempt nationals) will need to apply for ETIAS to enter France for short-term stays.
Example 5: I have a Schengen Visa issued by Germany, but I want to visit France. Do I need ETIAS?
No. If you have a valid Schengen visa issued by any Schengen country, you can travel to France without needing ETIAS.
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How to apply for ETIAS?
Applying for ETIAS is a straightforward process that can be completed online. You’ll need to provide personal information, travel details, and answer security-related questions. Once approved, your ETIAS will be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. The application process typically takes only a few minutes, and the response is usually given within minutes.
To wrap it all up
Understanding the difference between ETIAS and a French visa is key to ensuring a smooth entry into France. As an expat in France or someone planning to move, being informed about these changes will help you navigate the new requirements without any hassle. Remember, if you hold a valid French visa or residency permit, ETIAS is not necessary, but if you’re visiting short-term from visa-exempt country, ETIAS will be a requirements from 2025 onwards.
Useful resources
For more information on ETIAS, French visas and related topics, check out the following resources:
Official ETIAS Information – European Union – Visit website here.
ETIAS Application Guide – Schengen Visa Info – Visit website here.
French Visa Requirements – France-Visas – Visit website here.