Canadians will not need

The European Union delayed the implementation of the European Information and Licensing System (ETIAS) again.

This delay is due to technical problems, according to a declaration from the European Council.

The program is now expected to be in the last quarter of 2026, with a six -month grace period for travelers. The system was originally appointed to be in its place in 2021.

The changes will affect hundreds of thousands of Canadians who travel to the European Union every year.

ETIAS will require that exempt travelers-including Canadians-via the Internet to obtain visa exemptions before reaching one of 29 countries of the Schengen and Cyprus region.

The waiver will cost 7 euros, or about $ 11, and will last for three years. Canadians will need to fill the model with their personal information and pay before traveling.

Although most concessions will be treated in minutes, some may take up to 30 days.

Canadians who hold the passport of the European Union or the residence card in the European Union country will be exempt from the program.

Ireland will not participate and will continue to obtain its visa policy because it is part of the joint travel area with the United Kingdom

Global affairs in Canada say they are aware of the new schedule and said in a statement that “Canadians are encouraged to visit our travel advice and consultations. web page For all the latest information about entry and exit requirements. “

Canada has a similar program – electronic travel license – users costs $ 5 and lasts for five years. The United States also has visa -assignment programs for many countries, but Canadians are not required to make a waiver.

However, they must register if they intend to stay in the United States For more than 30 days.

The European Union also provides a modern entry and exit system that collects face images and fingerprints for most visitors to 30 European countries participating. This system is expected to start operating in October and lasts more than six months. It includes members of non -European Union such as Switzerland and Norway, but also does not include Ireland.