Less than a year away from the time the European Union plans to start making it obligatory for travellers from visa-free countries to obtain an entry authorisation through its ETIAS scheme, its authorities have revealed for Schengen.News that they are working on the mobile app for the ETIAS.
The app, through which travellers from over will be able to apply for their European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), will be available in all the languages of the Member States, on both iOS and Android platforms.
According to the Communication Department of the eu-LISA, the EU Agency for the operational management of large-scale systems like ETIAS, the app will not utilize biometric data for identity verification, while revealing further details related to it.
2FA shall be implemented in accordance with the ETIAS regulation and secondary legal texts. A combination of other targeted security measures shall be put in place as part of the ETIAS system implementation.
The same have also confirmed for Schengen.News that travellers from visa-free countries will be able to pay the ETIAS fee through the app, which payment methods are currently under finalization.
ETIAS App to Be Available in Older Smart Phone Models as Well, EU Says
When asked about the efforts being made to ensure compatibility with a wide range of mobile devices, including older models, the eu-LISA has confirmed that the app will still be available, in majority of them.
At the same time, they have pointed out that in cases when the app isn’t available, users can apply for their travel authorisation through the ETIAS website, which will be accessible through a range of browsers.
Mobile operating systems versions of several years of history, some even considered obsolete by manufacturers, will still be supported. In addition, the ETIAS website will be supported by a wide range of browsers.
EU Commission to Launch Communication Strategy on ETIAS App Once It’s Launches
In order to better inform travellers that will be required an ETIAS authorisation to enter the EU by mid-2025, the EU Commission is planning to launch a comprehensive communication campaign to reach the various relevant audiences, once the app is ready.
The launch of such a campaign in the future has been confirmed by the European Commission Spokesperson for Home Affairs, Anitta Hipper, for Schengen.News.
The ETIAS technical system is currently still under development. Once ready, the Commission will launch a comprehensive communication campaign to reach the various relevant audiences. This will include information to the public about the ETIAS mobile app ahead of its adoption.
She has also noted that applicants that experience difficulties when filling their application, will be provided support.
On the other hand, the eu-Lisa highlighted the fact that those who are not in a position to create and submit an application, for whatever reason, will be eligible to apply through a third party authorised by them or legally responsible for them.
At the same time, travellers will be able to authorise commercial intermediaries to create and submit an application on their behalf.
