Ukrainians will have to get through new security formalities starting from 2021, despite the visa-free travel regime, Ukrainian media reported in January 2020.
On Jan. 1, 2021, every Ukrainian will need to obtain a travel authorization to travel in the EU.
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is a new electronic system designed to keep track of visitors and permit entry to those coming from countries that do not need a regular Schengen visa to enter the EU.
Ukraine is part of them.
With that form, the EU’s security bodies aim to prevent criminals, illegal stayers and law-breakers from entering the area.
The main reason for the introduction of such a scheme is the protection and strengthening of the EU external borders.
The EU Parliament approved the plan to develop the ETIAS in October 2018 with plans to develop an operational system by 2021.
Similar models already exist in the U.S., Canada, and Australia, among others.
The electronic portal hasn’t been developed yet, but every Ukrainian wishing to travel to the Schengen Area will have to register on it before traveling to the EU.
Required information will include the education and work experience, as well as information on the first EU country intended to visit and the purposes behind the trip.
There will also be background and eligibility questions regarding medical conditions, trips to countries at war and previous deportations.
Applicants will also have to fill the form 4 days in advance and pay a fee of seven euros online through the ETIAS website.
ETIAS holder can use it to travel to the Schengen Area for three years from the date of its issuance, and frequent travelers from Ukraine will then receive travel authorizations will longer validity, up to 10 years.
ETIAS might spark confusion among Ukrainians. Experts say it is just a form to enter the EU, and that Ukrainians will soon realize that getting an ETIAS is actually an easy process.
The system is designed to be affordable and fast.
Completing the application should not take more than 10 minutes and automatic approval will be given in over 95% of cases.
All the information provided will be cross-checked against numerous EU data systems including Europol and Interpol.
When authorization is refused, the applicant will need to be informed about the decision within 96 hours. Applicants will always have the right to appeal refusals.
