Nationals from Georgia can travel to Europe visa-free. In 2022, besides a valid passport, they will need an approved ETIAS.
The European Travel Information and Authorization System will contribute to the security of the Schengen Area. The system will screen eligible travelers before they can enter the region.
Do Georgian nationals need a visa to enter Europe?
No, Georgians do not need a visa to enter European countries in the Schengen Zone.
A Georgian passport holder can stay in any Schengen member country for up to 90 days without a visa.
In 2022, however, they will need to apply for ETIAS travel authorization to enter European territories.
An ETIAS permit is not a visa. Georgians can quickly get their travel authorization by completing an online form.
Are Georgian Citizens Eligible to Apply for the ETIAS Visa Waiver?
Yes, Georgian citizens are eligible to apply for the ETIAS visa waiver. The application process is straightforward and fast.
The European Union is introducing the ETIAS system to increase the border security of Europe’s Schengen Area.
Furthermore, by prescreening all visitors from current visa-exempt nations, arrivals in Europe will be smoother.
Georgian nationals will continue to enjoy access to Europe without a visa. However, in the future, they must register with ETIAS to enter Schengen countries.
The system will complement the current visa liberalization policy. Third-country nationals from several countries require the Schengen visa.
How long can Georgians stay in Europe with ETIAS?
Georgian citizens with an approved ETIAS can stay in the Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
As there are no internal borders, the permit allows for unrestricted movement among the 26 Schengen Area states.
A further advantage is that the ETIAS is multiple-entry: Georgian travelers can exit and re-enter as many times as necessary during the validity period of 3 years.
Georgian nationals do not need to go to a consulate or embassy to present documentation. Instead, the process is entirely online and can be completed anywhere in the world, 24 hours a day.
What Documents do Georgians Need to Obtain ETIAS?
The only document required for ETIAS is a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended travel dates.
To apply for ETIAS with dual citizenship, use your Georgian passport or one issued by another of the 60 eligible countries.
A credit or debit card is required to pay the ETIAS fees. Applicants should provide an email address to receive correspondence, notifications, and the approved visa waiver.
The ETIAS application form is completed and submitted online.
The ETIAS Application Process for Georgian Citizens
The application process will increase security and safety across the Schengen Area. The system will maintain quick and streamlined access for those currently eligible for visa-free entry.
To request ETIAS online, Georgians have to meet all the ETIAS requirements for Europe. In the application form, they must provide the following:
- Personal information: full name, birthplace, and date of birth, gender
- Contact details: current address, telephone number, and email address
- Passport data: number, issue date, expiry date, and country of issue
- Travel plans: including intended country of arrival
In addition to the personal and passport details specified above, travellers should answer a series of questions about their health and criminal records.
All parts of the form must be filled in accurately. Any errors and spelling mistakes can lead to delays and even rejection.
On completion, the ETIAS fees are paid using a debit or credit card. The last step is submitting the request.
How Long Does it Take to Get an ETIAS from Georgia?
The ETIAS application for Georgian citizens is quick and efficient.
The entire application process is as follows:
- Complete online application: this usually takes a few minutes
- Data is automatically checked against security databases
- No hit: the ETIAS is approved within a matter of minutes
- Hit: application passes to manual processing
The data provided is first run through an automated system that checks the details against several security databases, including those which make up the Schengen Zone security system.
There will be no hits in 95% of cases, and the ETIAS will be approved within minutes. If, however, there is an alert in the system, the information will be processed manually by members of the ETIAS Central Unit and ETIAS National Units.
Applications that are revised manually are analyzed on a case-by-case basis. If the individual is not deemed to pose a risk to the public, the ETIAS will be granted. Those considered a threat will be blocked.
Although in most cases, the approved ETIAS is in the applicant’s inbox almost immediately, Georgian nationals are recommended to apply at least 3 business days before departure.