Latest news with #EuropeanTravelInformationandAuthorizationSystem
Time Business News
6 hours ago
- Business
- Time Business News
ETIAS and Offshore Identities: New Rules for European Access
**VANCOUVER, British Columbia —**In 2025, Europe's new digital travel authorization system—ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System)—has officially become a requirement for non-European visitors from visa-exempt countries. For individuals using offshore identities obtained through legal means such as second citizenship or residency-by-investment, ETIAS introduces new protocols, challenges, and opportunities for managing cross-border privacy and access. ETIAS is the EU's response to growing concerns over border security, terrorism, and irregular migration. While not a visa, ETIAS functions similarly to systems like the U.S. ESTA, requiring travelers to pre-register online and be screened through multiple databases before boarding a flight to the Schengen Area. For holders of legally issued offshore identities, this digital barrier can either streamline travel—if properly structured—or raise red flags if inconsistencies exist across jurisdictions. Amicus International Consulting explains how ETIAS intersects with offshore identity strategies and how clients can remain fully compliant while preserving their privacy and mobility. Understanding ETIAS in 2025: Who Must Apply and What It Means As of May 2025, ETIAS applies to travelers from more than 60 visa-free countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and most Caribbean nations offering citizenship-by-investment (CBI). Travelers must submit: Personal data (name, birthdate, nationality) Passport details Employment and education history Travel intent and itinerary Security and criminal background declarations The system cross-checks information against Interpol, Europol, Schengen Information System (SIS), and other European and international databases. ETIAS authorization is typically granted within minutes, but may take up to 96 hours in complex cases. Importantly, ETIAS does not apply to individuals holding EU citizenship or permanent residency in a Schengen country. Nor does it override bilateral visa-free agreements for extended stays, business setups, or academic programs. How Offshore Identities Can Simplify European Access For those with legitimate offshore identities through CBI or residency, ETIAS can function as a gateway—not a roadblock. Here's how: Avoidance of Domestic Restrictions: Travelers from countries with strained diplomatic ties or high visa rejection rates (e.g., certain Middle Eastern or African nations) can bypass these hurdles by using a second passport from a CBI jurisdiction like Saint Lucia or Dominica. New Identity Equals New Screening Profile: Individuals with past denials, revoked visas, or negative travel history under their birth identity can pass through ETIAS using clean, government-issued documents from their new jurisdiction. Legal Dual Identity Optimization: Dual nationals can choose the identity that provides the easiest access, submitting ETIAS applications from the nationality least likely to trigger red flags. Case Study: American Nomad Uses Antigua Passport for EU Access An American citizen working remotely in Asia held a second passport through Antigua's CBI program. Previously, her U.S. visa overstays in Europe caused issues at Schengen borders. By switching to her Antiguan identity, she successfully applied for ETIAS in early 2025, receiving instant approval. Her travel under this identity was legal, transparent, and uninterrupted—demonstrating how properly structured offshore identities enable fresh, compliant travel histories. ETIAS and CBI: A Legal Match When Properly Structured The European Commission recognizes all passports issued by sovereign states, including those from CBI nations—provided they are valid and not fraudulently obtained. Therefore, identity documents from: Saint Kitts and Nevis Grenada Dominica Antigua and Barbuda Saint Lucia Vanuatu They are accepted for ETIAS applications. However, issues can arise when: A country suspends its CBI program or changes passport security features An individual uses conflicting names or birthdates across multiple jurisdictions The passport does not meet biometric standards Amicus International ensures that clients' offshore identities are harmonized across systems to avoid discrepancies during ETIAS review. Case Study: South African Entrepreneur Uses Saint Lucia ID for Business Mobility A Cape Town–based investor faced repeated EU visa delays due to political unrest in his region. Through Amicus, he acquired Saint Lucia citizenship, opened a Malta holding company, and used the Saint Lucia passport to register under ETIAS. His travel to Schengen states for meetings, banking, and property inspections is now seamless, thanks to his new, lawfully obtained identity. ETIAS Limitations for Offshore Identity Holders While ETIAS is efficient, it does have limitations and cannot override: Schengen stay limits : Even with approval, travelers may only stay 90 days in any 180 days : Even with approval, travelers may only stay 90 days in any 180 days Tax and residency obligations : Offshore identity holders who spend significant time in Europe may trigger tax residency in that jurisdiction : Offshore identity holders who spend significant time in Europe may trigger tax residency in that jurisdiction Schengen blocklist entries : If an individual is flagged in SIS, an offshore identity—if linked by biometrics—will not circumvent entry bans : If an individual is flagged in SIS, an offshore identity—if linked by biometrics—will not circumvent entry bans Country-specific sanctions: Some nations may still enforce entry restrictions based on prior nationalities, especially in politically sensitive contexts Case Study: Journalist Avoids SIS Entry Block With Legal Identity Transition SIS had flagged a North African investigative journalist due to controversial publications. He acquired Grenadian CBI citizenship and restructured his digital footprint. By legally changing his name and securing a new biometric identity, he was able to pass ETIAS checks and travel through Italy, Spain, and Germany without incident. His previous identity, now disassociated, no longer triggers surveillance flags. How Residency-by-Investment Offers ETIAS-Free Access While ETIAS is mandatory for non-resident travelers, it is not required for legal residents of Schengen countries. This has prompted a rise in interest in residency-by-investment (RBI) programs such as: Portugal's Golden Visa Greece's Property Residency Scheme Spain's Investor Visa Malta's Permanent Residency Program Italy's Elective Residency Visa These programs allow offshore identity holders to bypass ETIAS entirely by becoming legal residents—often within 90 to 180 days. Once residency is established, individuals receive national ID cards and are free to travel throughout the Schengen Area without additional authorization. Case Study: Caribbean Businesswoman Uses Malta Residency to Circumvent ETIAS A Dominican national with a CBI-issued passport acquired Maltese residency via Investment. She now uses her Maltese residency card to travel freely within the EU, avoiding ETIAS applications altogether. This also enabled her to set up a company in Luxembourg and purchase property in the south of France—all with complete legal transparency. Digital Identity Matching and How to Avoid ETIAS Conflicts With AI-driven identity matching and biometric comparisons in play, clients must be careful not to trigger digital overlaps between their offshore and birth identities. Key strategies include: Legal name changes in both jurisdictions to avoid detection Avoidance of shared emails, phone numbers, or social media usernames Using distinct digital signatures (IP addresses, devices, biometrics) Registering ETIAS with jurisdictions that have no intelligence-sharing agreements with your birth country Amicus International specializes in structuring complete identity packages that pass modern scrutiny while remaining entirely lawful. ETIAS Appeals, Denials, and What Offshore Identity Users Must Know In the rare case of ETIAS denial: Applicants receive a reasoned explanation and a right to appeal Appeals must be filed in the Schengen state responsible for the rejection Offshore identities can still apply through secondary passports or seek residency to bypass ETIAS altogether In such cases, Amicus offers legal representation to clients, including document audits, identity clarification letters, and embassy coordination to ensure rights are upheld. Ethical Use and Compliance With ETIAS Regulations Amicus International strictly adheres to international law, ethical standards, and the transparency frameworks set by FATF, INTERPOL, and GDPR. Offshore identities are used solely for legal mobility, privacy enhancement, and personal safety—not to bypass legitimate restrictions or avoid justice. Case Study: U.S. Citizen Renounces and Rebuilds EU Access Through Offshore Identity After a politically charged dispute back home, a former U.S. government contractor renounced citizenship and obtained Antigua nationality. Using Amicus's support, he transitioned his ETIAS approval under the new identity, moved to the Netherlands via an RBI pathway, and now holds permanent residency with no need for ETIAS. The transition was fully documented and in compliance with both EU and international law. Conclusion: Offshore Identity and ETIAS Can Coexist With Proper Strategy ETIAS is not a wall—it's a filter. For individuals using legally established offshore identities, ETIAS can facilitate cleaner travel records, safer movement, and enhanced mobility across Europe. When paired with second passports or residency-by-investment, offshore identity becomes a powerful privacy tool, even under modern digital surveillance. Amicus International Consulting provides the guidance, legal structuring, and full-spectrum identity planning needed to navigate ETIAS with precision—ensuring that global access remains open for those who seek to live privately, lawfully, and freely. Contact InformationPhone: +1 (604) 200-5402Email: info@ Website:
The Herald Scotland
2 days ago
- The Herald Scotland
Europe's ETIAS fee just tripled: What US travelers need to know
The program has been continually delayed since its initial announcement in 2016, with an initial launch date planned for 2022. Here's what travelers need to know about ETIAS when it begins late next year. What is the European Travel Information and Authorization System? Prescreening travelers to the Schengen Area, the new systems "aim to strengthen European security and security of those who travel," according to the official website. U.K. travel authorization: You'll need to pay this fee to enter the country. Not to be confused with a visa, the ETIAS is an entry requirement for visitors from 59 countries, including the United States, to travel to 30 EU countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. You can apply online, and approval time takes as quickly as minutes to a few days. "ETIAS is not a visa and does not reintroduce visa-like obligations," European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper previously told USA TODAY. "There will be no need to go to a consulate to make an application, no biometric data will be collected and no additional documentation will be required beyond a valid travel document." How long does the ETIAS last? It lasts for three years and is tied to your passport. So if you get a new passport, you also need a new ETIAS. How much does the ETIAS cost? It's free for applicants who are under 18 or over 70. For everyone else, the costs is EUR20 (about $23.20).
USA Today
3 days ago
- USA Today
Planning a trip to Europe? You'll soon need this $23 document.
The European electronic travel authorization isn't even in effect yet, but the European Union is already bumping up the fees. According to the EU, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will be implemented for visa-free travelers in the last quarter of 2026, and an application will now cost 20 euros (about $23.20), up from the initially announced 7 euros. The program has been continually delayed since its initial announcement in 2016, with an initial launch date planned for 2022. Here's what travelers need to know about ETIAS when it begins late next year. What is the European Travel Information and Authorization System? Prescreening travelers to the Schengen Area, the new systems "aim to strengthen European security and security of those who travel," according to the official website. U.K. travel authorization: You'll need to pay this fee to enter the country. Not to be confused with a visa, the ETIAS is an entry requirement for visitors from 59 countries, including the United States, to travel to 30 EU countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. You can apply online, and approval time takes as quickly as minutes to a few days. "ETIAS is not a visa and does not reintroduce visa-like obligations,' European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper previously told USA TODAY. "There will be no need to go to a consulate to make an application, no biometric data will be collected and no additional documentation will be required beyond a valid travel document." How long does the ETIAS last? It lasts for three years and is tied to your passport. So if you get a new passport, you also need a new ETIAS. How much does the ETIAS cost? It's free for applicants who are under 18 or over 70. For everyone else, the costs is €20 (about $23.20).
USA Today
24-04-2025
- USA Today
Pope Francis' funeral is on Saturday. It's not too late to pay respects, but it's close.
Pope Francis' funeral is on Saturday. It's not too late to pay respects, but it's close. Show Caption Hide Caption Thousands pay respect to Pope Francis as he lies in state The body of Pope Francis was carried in a solemn procession from his residence within the walls of the Vatican City to St. Peter's Basilica. Pope Francis will be laid to rest on Saturday. The 88-year-old head of the Catholic Church died on Monday, after battling double pneumonia and other health issues earlier this year. His body is currently lying in state in St. Peter's Basilica, where streams of mourners have gathered to pay respects. The basilica will be open to the public until midnight Thursday and 7 p.m. Friday, for prayer and mourning. How sacred sites are helping travelers reconnect – with themselves and each other Travelers considering last-minute trips still have time, but it's getting close. Here's what to know about visiting the Vatican before and after Pope Francis' funeral. What is the best way to get to the Vatican? Vatican City is surrounded by Rome. The nearest major airport with transatlantic flights is Rome Fiumicino "Leonardo da Vinci" Airport (FCO). There's also another airport in Rome – Rome Ciampino "G.B. Pastine" Airport (CIA) – but that primarily serves European budget airlines traveling within Europe. Upon arriving in Rome, travelers can take a bus, metro, tram or taxi to Vatican City. How much is a trip to Rome? Airfares vary widely by point of origin and airline, but as of Thursday morning, Norse Atlantic Airways had last-minute flights between New York and Rome for under $500 roundtrip. Airfares on other airlines and from other cities easily cost twice as much. Well-reviewed hotel rooms are still available in Rome for upwards of $200 nightly, according to Expedia. Expedia reports that lodging queries for Rome have jumped 35% this week which airfare searches have gone up 250%. Can US citizens travel to Vatican City? Yes. Neither a passport nor visa are required to enter Vatican City, which is an independent sovereign state. However, a passport is required to enter Italy. Currently Italy does not require tourist visas for U.S. citizens visiting for less than 90 days. However, starting in late next year, European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) approval will be required to visit Italy and other countries with the European Union's Schengen Area. The State Department warns travelers should exercise increased caution when visiting Italy due to potential terrorism and recommends travelers sign up for its free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program in case of emergencies. Can I just visit the Vatican? Typically, yes, but this is not a typical week. The Vatican Museums website advises: The Vatican Museums and Castel Gandolfo Museum Complex will be closed Saturday for mourning. The Sistine Chapel will close to the public starting Monday for the papal conclave to select the next pope. Tours of the Vatican Gardens and the Necropolis of the Via Triumphalis are temporarily suspended. Also, while St. Peter's Basilica will be open to the public Thursday and Friday, its dome will be closed until Sunday. Visitors should note that paid tickets and reservations are required for some Vatican experiences. Story continues below. What time is the funeral for the pope? The funeral mass will begin at 10 a.m. local time in St. Peter's Square. Vatican time is 6 hours ahead of ET. How can I watch the pope's funeral? The Vatican will livestream the funeral mass and internment on its website and Vatican News YouTube channel. The Vatican has already posted the booklet for the celeration on its website. Several major networks, including NBC, CBS and ABC, also plan to air the funeral live on TV and/or their streaming channels. Breaking tradition: Even in death, Pope Francis is doing things differently Where is Pope Francis being buried? Unlike many of his papal predecessors interred at St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Francis will be buried outside the Vatican at the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome. In his official testament, dated June 29, 2022, and published by Vatican News following his death, Pope Francis wrote: 'Throughout my life, and during my ministry as a priest and bishop, I have always entrusted myself to the Mother of Our Lord, the Blessed Virgin Mary. For this reason, I ask that my mortal remains rest - awaiting the day of the Resurrection - in the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major. I wish my final earthly journey to end precisely in this ancient Marian sanctuary, where I would always stop to pray at the beginning and end of every Apostolic Journey, confidently entrusting my intentions to the Immaculate Mother, and giving thanks for her gentle and maternal care.' Travelers who can't make it to the Vatican before the pope's funeral can visit the Papal Basilica of St. Mary Major down the line. It's open daily and free to enter.
Arab Times
19-04-2025
- Business
- Arab Times
Travelers from 61 Countries to Face New EU Entry Requirements
The European Union is set to implement stricter regulations on visa-free travel in 2025, potentially affecting citizens from 61 countries. This initiative aims to enhance migration control and address security concerns. Expanded Grounds for Suspension The revised rules will empower the EU to suspend visa-free access more swiftly and for extended periods under several new conditions: * Policy Misalignment: Countries that do not align their visa policies with the EU, especially those that are geographically close, may face suspension. * Investor Citizenship Programs: Nations offering citizenship in exchange for investment, known as "golden passports," are under scrutiny for potentially compromising EU security. * Security Threats: Emerging "hybrid threats," where migration is used as a political tool, have prompted the EU to reassess its border policies. * Human Rights Concerns: Nations failing to uphold human rights or comply with international legal standards may face suspension of visa-free privileges. The EU can now suspend visa-free access for up to 12 months, with possible extensions of up to 24 months. If issues persist, permanent revocation is possible Monitoring and Enforcement * The European Commission will enhance monitoring of visa-free countries, focusing on: * Increases in unfounded asylum applications. * Overstays and irregular migration patterns * Cooperation on the readmission of individuals denied entry Thresholds for triggering suspensions have been adjusted, with a 30% increase in key indicators now sufficient to initiate action. Implications for Travelers Travelers from affected countries should stay informed about these changes and consult official EU resources or embassies before planning trips to the Schengen Area. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will also become mandatory in 2025 for visa-exempt travelers, requiring online application and a €7 fee These measures reflect the EU's commitment to balancing the benefits of visa-free travel with the need to address evolving migration and security challenges. Who Might Be Impacted? Asia-Pacific, Africa & Indian Ocean Australia, Brunei, East Timor, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macao, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Micronesia, Nauru, New Zealand, Palau, Samoa, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Tonga, Tuvalu, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). North America & Caribbean Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Mexico, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and the United States. Latin America Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Venezuela Europe (Non-EU) Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Holy See, Kosovo, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, San Marino, Serbia, Ukraine, United Kingdom. The above countries currently enjoy visa-free access to the Schengen Area, but the new rules could allow the EU to revoke that status more easily if they meet certain conditions.
