May 4, 2024

Athens News

News in English from Greece

Visa stab in the back for Ukrainians

After Scholz’s speech on migrants the next stage has come – the return of visa procedures. Entry to countries EU for Ukrainians at the end of 2023, it may cost 7 euros.

The automatic border crossing system in the Schengen area – ETIAS was supposed to be operational in 2021, but it was delayed due to the coronavirus crisis.

The system assumes:

  • an entry permit, which can be obtained through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). The cost is 7 € for third-country nationals who can cross the Schengen countries without a visa. It is valid for 3 years;
  • lack of stamps in the passport (information will be automatically entered into the Entry / Exit System database);
  • the system will record the full name, fingerprints, face image, type of travel document, date and place of entry/exit, as well as the period of stay of the traveler in Schengen.
  • Ukrainians will need to fill out an ETIAS questionnaire of about 15 questions, have a passport and pay 7€.

Allegedly, this should speed up the passage of the border. The system will automatically check if the applicant is among the wanted, those who are denied entry to the EU, who are at risk. The answer will come by e-mail almost immediately. But – can they refuse? In fact, this is the same visa regime, only in a simplified regime. It costs less and passes faster than it used to be, because modern technology allows it.

In case of refusal, it will be possible to file an appeal against the system. Some migrants will have to submit additional documents and pass a personal interview. Is the EU protecting itself from hundreds of thousands of potential migrants?



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