An ETIAS visa waiver will soon be required to visit Liechtenstein and any of the other Schengen Area nations. This essential European travel permit will be obtained online in a few simple steps.
Once ETIAS is launched in 2022, foreigners from eligible countries will be required to register with ETIAS, the EU Electronic Travel Information and Authorisation System in order to continue enjoying visa-free privileges. Even though this permit will be mandatory for some nationalities, ETIAS is not a visa but a travel authorisation or visa waiver.
The ETIAS visa waiver has been developed to increase security across Europe. By pre-screening visitors, potentially dangerous individuals can be prevented from entering Liechtenstein legally, increasing safety for tourists and residents.
Lichtenstein, the EU and the Schengen Area
The Principality of Liechtenstein is not a member of the EU. However, it does form part of the European Economic Area and, as such, has a close economic and political relationship with the European Union. European laws considered EEA-relevant must be applied in Liechtenstein.
Lichtenstein is highly integrated with the economy of neighbouring Switzerland, including the use of the Swiss Franc.
The European microstate signed the Schengen agreement in 2008 and joined the travel zone in 2011-This led to the elimination of the closed border with Austria.
As there are no borders in the Schengen zone, the same ETIAS authorisation can be used to travel around all Schengen countries.
How to apply for ETIAS Lichtenstein
To apply for ETIAS for Lichtenstein, eligible foreigners need to fill in a short online form. Just a few personal details such as the name, date of birth, and nationality of the applicant are necessary to successfully complete the application along with passport information.
Visitors should also answer a few security and health-related questions.
Before paying the ETIAS travel permit fees and submitting the request, it is essential to check that all the information supplied is accurate and error-free. Any mistakes made at this stage may lead to delays or even refusal
The traveller’s details are automatically cross-checked against Schengen zone security systems. Provided there are no hits, the request will be approved almost immediately. The ETIAS visa waiver is linked to the passport electronically. It is now possible to enter Lichtenstein.
In the unlikely event of a red flag during the automatic checks, the ETIAS application will be processed manually. Although most requests are approved quickly, it is advisable to apply well in advance of departure in case of any delays or other issues.
Passport requirements for ETIAS Liechtenstein
To be eligible for a European travel authorisation, applicants must have a passport issued by an ETIAS eligible country. The validity of the passport should cover the entire duration of the stay in the Schengen Area.
A biometric passport is required for ETIAS as the approved visa waiver is linked to the chip embedded in the travel document. For this reason, ETIAS cannot be transferred from one passport to another. Visitors applying for ETIAS with dual nationality must provide the details of the passport they will use to enter Lichtenstein.
Similarly, if the passport expires during the 3-year validity period of the ETIAS, a new travel authorisation must be obtained.
Travel information about Liechtenstein
Liechtenstein is one of the smallest countries in the world with an area of just 62 square miles (160 km2).
Despite its size, Liechtenstein has a lot to offer tourists and has become an increasingly popular destination in recent years.
There is no airport in Liechtenstein. International visitors can fly into Zurich Airport which is located around 70 miles (115 km) from Vaduz, the capital of Liechtenstein. The journey from Switzerland to Liechtenstein can be made by car or bus.
The Principality of Liechtenstein is the perfect choice for nature enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. The Prince’s Way is a well-known hiking route through the mountains which offers trekkers beautiful Alpine views.
Keen skiers should head to Malbun. Said to boast some of the best snow in Europe during winter, Malbun is an impressive snowsports destination and suitable for all ages and abilities.
This European nation also has plenty to offer holidaymakers with an interest in history and culture. The Liechtenstein State Art Gallery in Vaduz displays pieces from the 19th century onwards and is well worth visiting.
Lichtenstein is known for its enchanting castles. Gutenberg Castle is a favourite amongst tourists and during the summer months several events take place. Other noteworthy castles include Vaduz Castle, and Schalun and Obere Castle ruins.
The financial sector is an important part of the nation’s economy, Vaduz is a key financial centre with links to major cities across the world. For this reason, many business people go to Lichtenstein each year. These foreign travellers will also need to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver for a short stay in the country once it becomes available.