ETIAS – SEIAV the new travel requirement is in the process of implementing all systems necessary for correct functioning. Part of these implementations will affect carriers, including airlines, sea and coach operators who will also have a role in this process. When ETIAS – SEIAV is announced, they will have to verify before departure whether all visa-exempt travelers hold their valid ETIAS – SEIAV with them.  International coach operators will have three years to comply with this requirement.

This verification will be achieved electronically through a new tool in the carrier interface. in order to obtain it, carriers must register with eu-LISA, the EU agency responsible for the system, and a good number of them have already done so. During the verification process it will be determined whether the traveler can board the airplane, bus or sea vessel if they do not have an approved ETIAS – SEIAV. Train operators are exempt from verifying travelers´ ETIAS – SEIAV.

There could be situations where the traveler may not be allowed to board their transportation due to either not having a valid ETIAS – SEIAV or not having one at all. Carriers can check travelers’ information online from 48 hours prior to departure, but the final review will be before boarding time, except for train operators as mentioned before.

Regardless of the mode of transportation, travelers’ ETIAS – SEIAV will always be checked at the border. Travelers leaving the UK by train like Eurostar, should be aware that their ETIAS will be verified by a border guard befofe boarding. Carriers may be held liable and subject to penalties if they transport passengers without valid travel documents. The penalties are determined by the relevant Member States.

ETIAS – SEIAV has arrived to strengthen border security in Europe, specifically in the Schengen space, and the countdown has already started.