EU to implement new border control affecting SARs travelers

The European Union (EU) is set to implement two new border control measures over the next 12 months, which will affect travelers from Macau and Hong Kong.

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will require travellers from 60 visa-exempt territories, including Macau, to obtain permission before visiting 30 European countries. This authorization will be valid for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Meanwhile, the Entry/Exit System (EES) will collect biometric information and record travel document details, date and place of entry and departure from a European country for all non-EU nationals.

The exact dates for these changes have yet to be announced. It is expected that ETIAS will go into force in the first half of next year, with a transition period and a grace period to follow. And the EES is expected to take effect from this autumn.

Applicants will need to provide personal information such as name, date and place of birth, nationality, home address, parents’ first names, email address, phone number, travel document details, education level and occupation, as well as details of criminal convictions. Information about planned stays, previous travel to war or conflict zones, and any recent decisions requiring departure from a country will also be required before entering the Schengen Area. 

The change was prompted as ETIAS aims to detect security, irregular migration, or health risks posed by visa-exempt travelers, ensuring a safer and more secure travel experience. EES, on the other hand, focuses on preventing document fraud and strengthening control at the EU external border by monitoring traveler movements and detecting overstaying.

Travellers should be vigilant about fraudulent application channels, as there are at least 106 unofficial websites claiming to facilitate ETIAS applications. Only one official website exists for ETIAS applications.

ETIAS is a different system from obtaining a visa, which requires a longer procedure involving consulates. ETIAS is quick and can be applied for online, with an authorization costing €7 euros (MOP60) for most applicants but waived for those under 18 or over 70. NS