While there are many differences between these three programs, there are also similarities. Let’s take a closer look.
Purpose and Eligibility
ESTA is required for visa-exempt travelers to the United States. When it is introduced next year, ETIAS will be required for visa-exempt travelers to the Schengen Area countries, and the Canada ETA is required for visa-exempt visitors to that country. These systems aim to simplify document check protocols and strengthen border control by pre-screening travelers for potential threats.
Validity Period and Entries
ESTA is valid for 2 years, ETIAS for 3 years, and Canada ETA for 5 years, all linked to the passport’s expiration date. ESTA and ETIAS allow multiple entries, while Canada ETA allows multiple entries for up to 90 days per visit.
Application Process
The application process for all three systems is done online and is electronically linked to the traveler’s passport. The requirements for ETIAS are expected to be similar to ESTA and will require the applicant to provide personal, passport, contact, and travel plan information.
Security Measures
The primary goal of ESTA and ETIAS is to screen out potential risks. Possession of a valid ESTA or ETIAS does not guarantee entry – border security personnel have the authority to refuse entry if they suspect that someone represents a security, terrorist, criminal, or health risk.
Acceptance Thresholds
The acceptance thresholds differ between ESTA and ETIAS. The U.S. authorities are stringent, especially regarding criminal records and past visits to conflict areas, while ETIAS may be more lenient for minor offenses. Medical or mental health issues can also impact entry decisions differently between the two systems.
To summarize, while ESTA, ETIAS, and Canada ETA share similarities in their online application processes and the aim to enhance security, they differ in terms of validity, entry requirements, and acceptance thresholds, reflecting the unique needs and regulations of the United States, the European Union, and Canada.
What Are The Processing Times For These Three Programs?
ESTA – Most applicants receive approval for ESTA almost immediately, typically within a few minutes. In some cases, however, it may take several days for processing if additional documentation is required.
EU ETIAS – The ETIAS application process is designed to be quick and efficient. The majority of ETIAS applications will be processed almost immediately after submission. In cases where manual review might be needed, but a decision will be made within 2 weeks.
Canada ETA – The processing time for a Canada ETA is usually quick, with the majority of applicants receiving a decision within minutes. In some cases, however, it could take several days or even longer if additional documentation is requested during the review process.
How Can I Check The Status Of My ESTA, EU ETIAS, or Canada ETA Application?
To check the status of your application for any of these programs you should follow these steps:
ESTA – The U.S. Customs and Border Protection website provides an ESTA status check tool for applicants to verify the status of their application.
EU ETIAS – The official ETIAS website will offer a status check tool once the system is launched in 2025. Applicants will then be able to check the status of their ETIAS application online.
Canada ETA – For a Canada ETA, applicants can use the eTA check status tool provided by the Government of Canada. The government also sends email updates to the email address provided on the eTA application form, including acknowledgment of receipt, updates if additional information is needed, and confirmation of the final decision.
What Are The Most Common Reasons For An ESTA, ETIAS, or ETA Application To Be Rejected?
Incomplete, Inadequate, or Inconsistent Information
An application may be rejected if the applicant fails to provide all the required information accurately or if there are discrepancies between the information provided and the passport details. This includes typos or minor differences in data.
Suspicious Application
Refusal is also likely if authorities suspect that the information provided in the application form is inaccurate, false, or intentionally misleading. Any supporting documents supplied with the application must also be genuine and accurate.
Invalid Passport
Applications will be automatically refused if the passport or other travel documentation is invalid or has expired. This includes passports invalidated by systems like the Schengen Information System (SIS).
Existing SIS Alert
Individuals who have previously been refused entry to a European or Schengen country, overstayed their allotted time, or have a history of violating visa regulations may face rejection based on information stored in databases like the Schengen Information System.
Criminal History
Applicants with a criminal history or who are considered to be a threat to the security and well-being of the destination country may have their applications rejected. This includes using false or misleading documents or information.
Health Risk
Certain medical conditions, especially contagious or infectious diseases, can lead to rejection of an application. Specific health criteria may disqualify individuals from obtaining approval.
What Can I Do If My Application For Any Of The Three Programs Are Rejected?
Here are the general steps you can take if your ESTA, EU ETIAS, or Canada ETA application should be rejected:
ESTA Rejection
If your ESTA application is rejected, you will need to apply for a nonimmigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The reasons for rejection are usually communicated in the rejection notice, and you may need to address those issues before applying for a visa.
EU ETIAS Rejection
In the case of an EU ETIAS rejection, you will receive a notification explaining the reason for the rejection. You may have the option to appeal the decision or correct any errors in your application. If the rejection is due to ineligibility, you may have to apply for a Schengen visa through the respective embassy or consulate.
Canada ETA Rejection
If your Canada ETA application is rejected, the reasons for rejection will be provided in the notification. Depending on the circumstances, you may have the opportunity to address any issues or discrepancies and reapply. If necessary, you can apply for a visitor visa through the appropriate Canadian visa office or consulate.
When Will The EU ETIAS Be Officially Introduced?
The EU ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is currently expected to be officially introduced in early 2026. The launch date has been pushed back several times, with previous plans to introduce it in 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025. However, the European Union has apparently now set a firm target of 2026 for ETIAS to become operational.
ETIAS will require visa-exempt travelers, including those from countries like the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom, to obtain an approved electronic travel authorization before visiting the Schengen area. It is being implemented to strengthen border security by pre-screening visitors for potential security, irregular migration or health risks.
Once launched, ETIAS will be valid for 3 years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever happens first.
The application process will be fully online, with most decisions expected to be made within minutes, although some cases may require additional checks or documentation, which can take up to 30 days, or even longer in exceptional circumstances.
How Will The EU ETIAS Affect Travel To Europe?
The introduction of ETIAS will have a significant impact on many people who want to travel to the European Union. The list includes:
Eligibility and Application
– ETIAS will be required for citizens of countries that currently enjoy visa-free travel to the EU, including the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom.
– Travelers, regardless of age, will be able to apply for ETIAS online before their trip to Europe.
– The application process will require personal data, passport information, travel details, and background questions. A fee of €7 will apply, with exemptions for those under 18 and over 70.
Processing and Validity
Most ETIAS applications will be processed within minutes, but some may take up to 4 weeks if additional checks are required.
A successful ETIAS will be valid for 3 years or until the passport expires, whichever is sooner.
Impact on Travel
Travelers must have a valid ETIAS during their entire stay in Europe, up to 90 days.
ETIAS will not guarantee entry – border officials can still deny entry if the traveler is deemed a security risk or does not meet entry conditions.
Travelers without a valid ETIAS may be denied boarding or entry to Europe.
What Are The Implications Of The Arrival Of ETIAS For The European Travel Industry?
Airlines and travel agencies will have to check for a valid ETIAS before allowing travelers to board flights to Europe.
The travel industry is cautiously optimistic about ETIAS and recognizes its potential to improve security and streamline processes. Some are, however, concerned about initial implementation challenges.
The Bottom Line
While having to apply for an ESTA, Canada ETA, or from next year an EU ETIAS might seem like unnecessary red tape, these programs are actually there to make visiting the United States, Canada, and soon Europe easier and safer for most travelers. The application processes and cost involved are generally speaking well worth it if one considers the many benefits.