More than ever, we Canadians are choosing Europe as our top travel destination – France, Spain, Italy… the allure of gorgeous coastlines, amazing landscapes and bathing in history is beckoning.
If you’re ready for your European vacation, even for a short stay, its time to register, learn about the new process so you know what to expect and get your travel insurance in place.
What is EES (Entry/Exit System)?
The European Union has modernized its border management and enhanced security and now has an automated system called the Entry/Exit System, or EES.
EES automatically records every time you enter and exit a European country by crossing a border there. That means border control will be more efficient and secure – replacing manual passport stamping with electronic tracking.
How does it work? EES uses biometric data to verify your identity and monitor where you are. When you arrive in Europe, border officers will take a photo of your face and/or scan your fingerprints. Just follow the border guard’s instructions and you will be fine. In some country’s your biometric data will be collected at a self-service kiosk. Your data will be stored for three years, so you won’t need to re-register again during that time.
In the future (or if you are heading to Sweden now) you will have the option to download the EES app called Travel to Europe. On the app you can pre-register your passport data and facial image (take a selfie) before reaching a border crossing point and fill in any entry conditions questionnaire in advance. The app won’t replace border checks but will make border crossing smoother and faster (and not all countries are using it yet).
Yes, with EES you won’t be able to ‘sneak’ across the borders of European countries or stay for longer than you are allowed to – but the good news is EES does help prevent identity theft and helps border officers and law enforcement to detect potential security threats (and for travellers, that’s a good thing).
Visit the EES website for more information.
What is ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System)?
With your Canadian passport, you can travel to many countries in Europe visa-free and stay for up to 90 days if you are touring, doing business or going to study. But you also need to register with ETIAS to enter the Schengen Area in Europe, and Cyprus without a visa.
ETIAS acts as a pre-screening measure to enhance security before travelers arrive in Europe. You must apply for ETIAS online before your trip, providing personal information and travel history. The application is processed quickly, and if approved, the authorization is valid for three years or until your passport expires.
For details on ETIAS read this.
What are the main differences between EES and ETIAS?
ETIAS and EES (Entry/Exit System) are two distinct systems that are both aimed at enhancing border security and managing travel in Europe. They have different purposes
EES automates the entry and exit process at borders
EES is for everyone going to Europe, even if you have a visa or are exempt from visa requirements. You don’t need to apply – it is in place automatically at border crossings. EES monitors and records your actual entry and exit at borders.
ETIAS focuses on pre-travel screening
ETIAS is specifically for visa-exempt travelers entering the Schengen Area. It requires an online application before you travel. It is your ‘pre-authorization’ before you arrive in Europe.
Make sure you have travel insurance for your security too
Buy trip cancellation and interruption protection as soon as possible after you book your European trip. If you need to cancel your trip before your scheduled departure due to unforeseen circumstances, trip cancellation insurance reimburses you for non-refundable, prepaid travel arrangements that can’t be recovered from another source. And trip interruption coverage can help cover costs if you miss a connection or need to get home quickly because of an emergency.
Most importantly, put emergency medical travel insurance in place! Injuries and illnesses can become extremely expensive in Europe. If you have a serious health crisis there are limits on how much your government health insurance plan will pay – and they only pay a small portion of medical expenses incurred abroad. Costs like air and ground ambulance, emergency dental treatment and prescription drug expenses, and fees charged by hospitals or outpatient facilities are likely not covered – unless you have your emergency medical travel insurance.
Emergency medical travel insurance includes emergency travel assistance too – a real help if you need it while away from home.
And, if you plan to go to Europe frequently, Multi-Trip insurance can cover you for all of your trips in a twelve-month period. If you have some travel coverage already, a Top-Up Plan can help cover travel days that are over and above the coverage you have at a daily rate.
Want an easy way to apply for your travel insurance coverage?
Regardless of what type of insurance coverage you need for your travels, it is wise to always be sure you have read the policy yourself and discussed any potential gaps with an insurance professional. At SBIS, we can help.
Don’t wait. Call us and buy your travel insurance online as far ahead of your travel time as possible. We can help complete the forms and any necessary medical questionnaires without hurrying, and you will have the time to read the certificate of coverage from start to finish before you leave. Getting the right insurance is serious business; it’s all about your safety. Get started now by calling us at 1-800-667-0429 during our regular business hours or by emailing us at [email protected] for prompt service at any time.
