The EU is gearing us up for a new era of travel, but not quite how we imagined! Starting from the second half of this year, the new EU entry system, known as ETIAS, will require a mandatory travel authorization for all visa-exempt travelers. But wait, the price? Instead of the initially announced 7 euros, this permit will now cost a whopping 20 euros! Inflation and operational costs are to blame, they say. And that’s not all — the permit will be valid for three years, but if you get a new passport, you’ll have to apply again. Is this the dawn of a new era or just another way to dig deeper into our pockets?
But hold on, there’s more! In October, the EES system will roll out, tracking every entry and exit from the EU for non-EU nationals. Biometric data, fingerprints, across 30 European countries! Sounds like Big Brother is watching your every move.
Countries like Croatia, Hungary, Greece, Germany, and many others are already preparing for this gradual implementation. But what about us? Are we ready for this level of surveillance and extra costs?
Meanwhile, Mediterranean beaches remain a mess — sewage in the sea, overcrowding, and tourists drowning in bureaucracy. Is this the future of traveling in Europe?
If you’re bored, drop a comment below and tell us what you think about these new rules. Is ETIAS and EES just another control scheme or do they really boost security? Let’s chat!
