All visa-exempt travellers will be required to obtain a permit and pay a EUR 7 fee to travel to European countries starting at the end of 2023. The new rule, a European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), is expected to go into effect in November for the nationals of more than 60 countries, including Georgians, who do not require a visa to enter the Schengen zone.

According to the European Commission’s official website, “All visa-free travellers will need to request ETIAS authorisation prior to their visit to the Schengen area. Travellers will have to pay a one-off €7 fee (for travellers between 18 and 70 years old), and their authorisation will be valid for three years (or until the expiry date of the travel document).”

Travellers will have to complete an online application via a dedicated website or an application for mobile devices, filling in their personal information, such as place of birth, date of birth, residence, phone number, education, and occupation, before travelling to Europe.

Applicants must also specify which EU member state they intend to enter first. The application form will also include a section for inquiries about health, criminal record, etc.

It will not be required to print it once you have obtained the relevant authorization for travel to Europe.

According to the European Commission, the new rule will make travel safer.