The European Travel Information and Authorisation System is an automated programme aimed at identifying possible risks related to visa-exempt visitors travelling to the Schengen Area. This visa waiver for Europe can be obtained by completing the online application form.
ETIAS for Canadians travelling to Europe
Canadian citizens who wish to travel to any of the countries in the Schengen zone for short-term stays of up to 90 days will be required to have an ETIAS visa waiver before departure. Citizens of Canada should carefully check the requirements to obtain the travel authorisation for Europe.
It is expected that the ETIAS programme will be rolled out in 2022. Once it becomes available, it will be mandatory for travellers from eligible countries to obtain an ETIAS visa waiver for Europe.
An approved ETIAS will allow the visitor to move freely within Schengen member countries. Travellers can visit any nation in the free travel area with this form of travel authorisation for Europe. Canadian citizens who wish to travel to Europe will need a valid passport when you apply for an ETIAS.
ETIAS is not a visa, it is a visa waiver is a programme designed by the EU to monitor and screen travellers from visa-exempt countries in order to protect the region and its people. There are 60 nationalities, including Canada, that will be expected to enrol for a travel authorisation.
ETIAS visa waiver for Canadian children
The European Commission has created the European Travel Authorisation to monitor travellers from visa-exempt countries who wish to visit the 26 European territories in the Schengen Area.
When the system launches in 2022 it will be obligatory for travellers of all ages, including children. Any children entering the European Union from a third country, such as Canada, will also need to travel with an ETIAS.
Children who wish to travel to the EU should have the proper documentation, including a valid passport. In some cases, children might need an extra official document signed by their parents, second parent, or legal guardian(s) authorising them to travel. However, the EU does not have a unified rule for children. Each member country decides whether or not it requires such documents.