Information on Visiting Switzerland: Clarifying theEES and ETIAS Requirements for Travelers
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) and the Entry/Exit System (EES) are two new systems designed to enhance security and streamline border management within the EU/Schengen Zone. Here's what you need to know if you're a non-EU citizen residing in an EU or Schengen country with a long-stay visa or residence permit.
ETIAS for Long-Stay Visa and Residence Permit Holders
ETIAS is an online visa waiver required for tourists and other visitors to the EU/Schengen zone. However, individuals holding a valid long-stay visa or residence permit issued by an EU member state are exempt from applying for ETIAS. This means that if you already have a long-stay visa or residence permit for an EU/Schengen country, you do not need an ETIAS travel authorization to enter the Schengen area within the validity of your permit.
EES for Long-Stay Visa and Residence Permit Holders
The Entry & Exit System (EES) will require most non-EU visitors entering the Schengen Area to provide biometric data (fingerprints and a facial photo) upon entry and exit. For residents with a long-stay visa or residence permit, the typical "short-stay" rules tracked by EES do not apply in the same way because their legal status allows them to stay longer and travel within the Schengen area. However, they will still be subject to biometric registration if required upon crossing external Schengen borders, especially for secondary travel or re-entry.
Exemptions and Key Points
- ETIAS is mandatory for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) for non-EU nationals from visa-exempt countries.
- Exemptions for ETIAS include holders of valid long-stay visas or residence permits issued by an EU member state, EU citizens, nationals of some microstates, and UK citizens protected under the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement.
- Non-EU citizens who are residents of an EU/Schengen zone country are not required to complete EES pre-registration or provide biometrics.
- Switzerland and Norway are among the 29 countries joining the EES system.
In conclusion, non-EU citizens with a long-stay visa or residence permit do not need ETIAS for travel within Schengen countries during the validity of their permits, but will be subject to biometric data collection under EES at border crossings. The exact dates for the rollout of ETIAS and EES are yet to be confirmed, but it's essential to check the official EU or national immigration authorities’ guidance close to your travel date for the latest information.
The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is not necessary for individuals holding a valid long-stay visa or residence permit in an EU member state, as they are exempt from applying for ETIAS. However, these individuals will still be subject to biometric data collection under the Entry & Exit System (EES) at border crossings when crossing external Schengen borders, especially for secondary travel or re-entry.
