For now, participation in facial recognition technology is completely voluntary. Here’s how you can opt-out.

Which Airports Use Facial Recognition Technology?

The TSA has been testing facial recognition technology at numerous airports in the United States over the past year and plans to roll it out at many more locations in the near future. 

These are the airports where you can expect to see facial recognition technology in use:

• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
• Denver International Airport (DEN)
• Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
• Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)
• Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport (GPT)
• Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
• Honolulu Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
• Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (JAN)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
• LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
• Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU)
• Miami International Airport (MIA)
• Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)
• Nashville International Airport (BNA)
• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
• Richmond International Airport (RIC)
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)
• Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)

How is Facial Recognition Used at Airports?

Passengers being screened with facial recognition technology will not have to show their identification or ticket in order to pass through security. 

Instead, updated passenger identification scanners utilize biometric cameras capable of facial recognition. These devices match a traveler’s face to their driver’s license or passport photo along with any other photos the government may have on file, and automatically verifies that they are a ticketed airline passenger. 

How to Opt out of TSA Facial Recognition

The TSA’s official policy states, “Travelers who do not wish to participate in the facial recognition technology process may decline the optional photo in favor of an alternative identity verification process, which does not use facial recognition technology to verify their identity.”

To opt out of facial recognition at the airport, proceed through the normal security line. Once you reach the checkpoint, there will be a sign indicating that facial recognition technology is being used. If it is being used, all you have to do is politely tell the officer that you would like to opt out. All checkpoints should have clear signage notifying passengers that they have the right to opt out of facial recognition screening.

The TSA officer will then give you a “manual screening,” which is the same process of screening that has been in place at airports for years. The officer will take your identification and match it against your appearance visually. You will not lose your place in line by asking for the manual screening, and it will not take any longer than the facial recognition process. The TSA emphasizes, “The traveler will not experience any negative consequences for choosing not to participate.”

How to Opt-Out if You Have TSA PreCheck  

TSA PreCheck passengers are more likely to undergo facial recognition screening than travelers going through standard security lanes. However, the opt-out process is the same—all you have to do is let the TSA officer know that you want to be manually screened.

The post How to Opt Out of TSA Facial Recognition appeared first on SmarterTravel.

We’ve partnered with the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino to give away a dream trip to One Happy Island. This four-star resort sits on Palm Beach, a stunning white sand overlooking the bright blue Caribbean Sea. Once you arrive, you can continue your winning streak at the property’s Stellaris Casino, or relax in a private cabana at the adults-only H2Oasis pool—you’ll never want to leave the resort.

Fortunately, you won’t have to, as the Aruba Marriott has a wide variety of on-site dining options, including the elegant Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Mediterranean-influenced Mercat, and beachfront views at Atardi. 

Soak in the beautiful views without leaving your room—the Aruba Marriott boasts some of the largest hotel balconies in the country, and every accommodation type has one. 

The Prize

The lucky winner of the sweepstakes will receive the following:

• 4 nights accommodations at the Aruba Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino
• Two air credits of $600 each
• Breakfast for 2    
• $400 food and beverage credit
• $100 casino match and play 
• $300 spa credit
• Welcome wine and cheese platter                                              

Redemption of the prize is subject to availability and is valid for stays through March 15, 2025. Blackout dates apply.

How to Enter

Visit our sweepstakes page here to enter before the giveaway ends on March 22, 2024.

Entering is easy—all you have to do is sign up for SmarterTravel and Oyster’s newsletters. If you’re already a subscriber, simply enter your email address to verify your account (you won’t be signed up twice.)

You can gain bonus entries by completing one or more of the following tasks to increase your chance of winning. You’ll receive one additional entry per task.

1. Follow us on Twitter (X).
2. Retweet a Tweet from SmarterTravel.
3. View our Facebook post.
4. Share the sweepstakes with a friend.
5. Follow Us on TikTok.

For full sweepstakes rules, review the Terms and Conditions on the sweepstakes entry page here.

The post Sun, Sand, and a Free Vacation: Win a Trip to Aruba appeared first on SmarterTravel.

What Are Airplane Seatbelt Extenders?

Airplane seatbelt extenders, sometimes called seatbelt extensions, are longer seatbelt straps provided by airlines to give passengers more room. They attach to the built-in seatbelts to make them longer and looser. Standard airplane seatbelts are between 39 and 51 inches and vary by aircraft. Seatbelt extenders generally provide an extra 25 inches of length. 

How Do You Request an Airplane Seatbelt Extender?

Airlines stock seatbelt extenders on every flight. To request one, simply ask a flight attendant. If you want to request an airplane seatbelt extender discreetly, here are a few tips:

• Ask for one as you board the plane (the flight attendant can drop it off at your seat)
• Ask the flight attendant for one as they are walking around and checking the overhead bins
• Ring the call button after taking your seat and ask for one

Flight attendants hand out airplane seatbelt extenders on a daily basis, so don’t be embarrassed to ask for one. It’s mandatory that you be buckled in before takeoff, so proactively requesting one will help speed up the process. 

How Do Airplane Seatbelt Extenders Work?

Using an airline seatbelt extender is very easy. Simply click the extender into the plane’s seat belt and adjust the belt to be the correct length. It should fit snugly but not too tight. 

Can You Bring Your Own Seatbelt Extender on a Plane?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) strictly prohibits passengers from using their own seatbelt extenders. The seatbelt extenders provided by the airlines have been tested to meet stringent safety standards, and ones purchased online could break or fail in case of an accident.

If a flight attendant sees a passenger attempting to use their own seatbelt extender, they will require them to swap it out for the airline’s. 

Does Requesting a Seatbelt Extender Cost Extra or Require Pre-Booking?

All passengers deserve to fly safely, so there are absolutely no fees or costs associated with using a seatbelt extender. There’s also no need to prebook or reserve one—just ask for it when you board. 

Can You Use a Seatbelt Extender in an Exit Row?

Unfortunately, seatbelt extenders are not allowed in the exit row. Seatbelt extenders could become an obstruction or trip hazard in an emergency, hindering access to the exit.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Airplane Seatbelt Extenders appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The agency announced that beginning immediately, conditionally approved Global Entry applicants who are flying out of Dulles on an international flight can complete their interviews before departure. 

“This is great news for those trying to schedule interviews to complete their membership into this critically acclaimed trusted traveler program,” said Marc E. Calixte, Area Port Director for CBP’s Area Port of Washington, D.C.

How Enrollment on Departure Works

If you have been conditionally approved for Global Entry membership and are booked on an international flight out of Dulles, you can participate in enrollment on departure. You cannot make an appointment for the interview—just ensure you arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your departure flight.

The enrollment on departure office is located at gate B41 in Dulles Airport and is open from 12 p.m. through 8 p.m. daily.

You will need to bring the following documents to your interview:

• Passport
• Physical document providing proof of residency (driver’s license, utility bill, etc.)
• Airline ticket for departing flight

Where is Enrollment on Departure Available?

Enrollment on Departure is currently only available at Washington Dulles International Airport. However, travelers can complete their global entry interview upon arrival from international flights at many other airports. 

The post No Appointment Necessary: Global Entry Launches Enrollment on Departure Option appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Checking a bag on American Airlines? It will now cost $40 per bag if you don’t prepay online or $35 if you pay in advance. Previously, the airline was charging a flat $30 per checked bag. American has also increased the price of a second checked bag from $40 to $45.

The higher checked bag fee applies to all flights within and between the United States, Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands. Checked bags remain free on most international flights with American Airlines for all classes of tickets except for Basic Economy. Checked bags for Basic Economy passengers on international flights start at $75.

American is also increasing checked baggage fees on flights to and from the US to Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America destinations by $5. The first checked bag will now cost $35, and the second checked bag will cost $45.

This is the first time the airline has raised its checked baggage fee since 2018, and the increase makes America the most expensive US carrier to check a bag on.

When Will the Changes Begin?

The new checked bag fees began on February 20. Passengers who booked a flight before the fee was announced will not have to pay the increased rate. 

How to Avoid a Checked Bag Fee on American Airlines

The checked bag fee is waived on the first bag for:

• Eligible AAdvantage Aviator and Citi / AAdvantage cardmembers (on domestic American Airlines-operated itineraries)
• AAdvantage Gold status holders
• Oneworld Ruby status holders

American Airlines Checked Bag Fees 2024

The post American Airlines Raises Checked Bag Fees appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Set atop the Continental Divide, Banff Sunshine Village receives so much natural snow (an average of 30 feet a year) that the resort harvests snow through a unique fencing system to capture some of the best powder in the country. The mountain is blessed with so much snow that there are only two snow guns in the entire resort (used to build a base in the lower ski-out area). 

If this sounds like the perfect vacation spot, you’re in luck. We’re giving away the ultimate snowsports bundle—a three-night ski and stay package at Banff Sunshine Village.

The package includes:

• Three nights at the Sunshine Mountain Lodge in a deluxe balcony room
• Four adult lift tickets
• Two days of rentals
• Two dinners at Eagle’s Nest Dining Room at Sunshine Mountain Lodge (alcohol is not included)

The prize can be redeemed through the end of the 2024/2025 season (May 2025).

How to Enter

Visit our sweepstakes page here to enter before the giveaway ends on February 27, 2024. 

Entering is easy—all you have to do is sign up for SmarterTravel and Oyster’s newsletters. (If you’re already a subscriber, you just need to enter your email address to verify your account—you won’t be signed up twice.)

You can gain bonus entries by completing one or more of the following tasks to increase your chances of winning. You’ll receive one additional entry per task. 

1. Follow us on Twitter (X).
2. Retweet a Tweet from SmarterTravel.
3. View our Facebook post.
4. Share the sweepstakes with a friend.

For full sweepstakes rules, review the Terms and Conditions on the sweepstakes entry page here.

The post Win a Ski and Stay Vacation at Banff Sunshine Village appeared first on SmarterTravel.

When Is the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse?

The first location in continental North America to see the total solar eclipse will be Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. The Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada will be the last place in continental North America to see the eclipse, where it will exit at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has provided a helpful chart that shows the time totality will begin in cities throughout the US.

How Long Will the Total Solar Eclipse Last?

Depending on where you are viewing the eclipse from, totality will last up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Can You Look Directly at a Total Solar Eclipse?

During totality, it is safe to look directly at the Sun, even through magnifying devices like binoculars or a telescope. However, do not look directly at the Sun if it is not in totality. The American Astronomical Society (AAS) warns, “Whenever any part of the photosphere is uncovered, it is essential to view the Sun through a safe solar filter, that is, one that meets the transmission requirements of the ISO 12312-2 international standard.” The AAS maintains a list of places to buy safe solar filters (you can even get them for free from some public libraries.) These are not something you’d want to buy from an unknown party on Amazon, in case they are counterfeit. 

Sunglasses are not enough protection for looking directly at the sun. The AAS cautions, “Looking at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed Sun through dark sunglasses or any other unapproved filter is a recipe for serious and potentially permanent eye injury.”

2024 Total Solar Eclipse Travel Tips

North America won’t see another total solar eclipse until March, 30, 2033—and even then, only Alaska will witness totality. A total solar eclipse won’t return to the lower 48 until August 23, 2044—which makes the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse special and worth traveling for. Book travel early as hotels, flights, and rental cars will sell out in prime viewing destinations well before 2024. Rates are also likely to increase the closer you book to the eclipse. 

The Best Places to See the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse in the US

For the best vantage points of the 2024 total solar eclipse, plan a trip to these destinations: 

Erie, Pennsylvania

Since the centerline of the eclipse centerline skirts Lake Erie on the U.S. side, bypassing dry land in Pennsylvania, Erie emerges as the closest city to its trajectory without venturing into the water. Situated approximately 20 miles offshore, Erie enjoys extensive periods of totality during the event.

In downtown Erie, spectators will be treated to 3 minutes and 40 seconds of totality—but you can gain a few extra seconds of darkness (and have more open space to watch from) by driving out onto picturesque Presque Isle State Park.

The best places in Erie to watch the solar eclipse are:

• Tom Ridge Environmental Center
• Presque Isle Lighthouse
• Presque Isle State Park
• Erie Maritime Museum
• Erie Land Lighthouse
• North Pier Light

Where to Stay: Ask for a bay view room at the Courtyard By Marriott Erie Bayfront.

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Niagara Falls, New York 

For one of the most stunning views of the total solar eclipse, head to Niagara Falls. Arrive early to stake out a spot at Terrapin Point, where you’ll be able to witness the eclipse with the sun positioned directly over the Falls. 

In downtown Niagara Falls, New York, totality will endure approximately 3 minutes and 31 seconds. The area is embracing this once-in-a-lifetime event, putting on a series of free events to celebrate the solar eclipse. Beginning on April 4, 2024, there will be a series of astronomical talks, exhibitions, and other experiences for the public to enjoy.

The best places in Niagra Falls to watch the solar eclipse are:

• Niagara Aerospace Museum
• Hyde Park
• Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino
• Niagara Falls State Park
• Niagara Falls Observation Tower

Where to Stay: Book early to reserve a prime Falls view room at the Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites. 

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Burlington, Vermont

Burlington’s Lake Champlain is beautiful on an ordinary day, so watching the total solar eclipse there will be even more special. The eastern shores of the lake will get about 3 minutes and 15 seconds of totality. The city of Burlington, Vermont, is putting on a series of events to commemorate the momentous occasion. Stop by Palmers Sugar House for a solar eclipse party, and then celebrate witnessing the eclipse at the Total Eclipse of the Heart afterparty at the Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain.

The solar eclipse will begin at exactly 2:14 pm in Burlington,  and totality will last between 3:26 through 3:29 pm. If Burlington is too crowded for you, head out into the countryside, as all of Northern Vermont will experience a total eclipse of the sun.

The best places in Burlington to watch the solar eclipse:

• Centennial Field
• Waterfront Park
• Battery Park
• Leddy Park

Where to Stay: The Courtyard by Marriott Burlington Harbor is a great budget-friendly choice in the heart of downtown Burlington.

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Cleveland, Ohio

Plan a trip to Cleveland, which will be directly in the path of totality for nearly four minutes, for a day of fun and learning. The city will host an eclipse-themed celebration and offer plenty of public viewing spaces near Lake Erie. Cleveland lies almost directly on the centerline, so anyone in the downtown area will get to enjoy the eclipse for an extended period.

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History and the University Circle community will host a fun weekend of events leading up to the solar eclipse, culminating in a community watch party on the Wade Oval on April 8.

The best places in Cleveland to watch the solar eclipse are:

• The Cleveland Museum of Natural History
• The Ritz-Carlton
• Lake Erie
• Crushers Stadium

Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Cleveland will host its own solar eclipse viewing party.

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Dallas, Texas

If you want to watch the total solar eclipse without freezing, Dallas is a great viewing spot that will have warm weather in April. The city’s downtown area will witness around 3 minutes and 51 seconds of totality starting at 1:40 p.m. CDT. If you’re hoping to avoid the Dallas crowds, several other Texas cities will be in the path of totality, including most of Fort Worth, Waco, Temple, most of Austin and parts of San Antonio.

The eclipse will pass over Dallas from 12:23 to 3:02pm, with totality occuring from 1:40 to 1:44pm. Although you’ll be able to see the eclipse in most spots in the city by simply going outside and looking up (just try to get away from tall buildings), there will be many viewing events around the city. The Perot Museum of Nature and Science and the Dallas Arboretum are both hosting watch parties, but be sure to buy your tickets early as they are likely to sell out.

The best places in Dallas to watch the solar eclipse:

• Perot Museum of Nature and Science
• Dallas Arboretum
• Downtown Dallas
• Samuell Farm

Where to Stay: Avoid the traffic and stay right in downtown Dallas at the luxurious Joule hotel.

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The Best Places to Watch the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse in Canada & Mexico

If you want to plan a trip abroad to watch the solar eclipse, here’s where you should go. 

Prince Edward Island

Location is key if you want to witness totality, so if you’re in Prince Edward Island, head to the wesetern region, which will experience around three minutes of totality. Skinner’s Pond, Ignish, and North Cape will all be good choices for a viewing spot.   

The upcoming eclipse trajectory will travel in from a southerly to northerly direction. Canadians will catch the initial glimpse in the southern regions of Ontario, with Toronto situated on the periphery of the viewing zone. Subsequently, it will traverse through southern Quebec and New Brunswick before reaching P.E.I.

Totality is expected to envelop the Island starting from Summerside and extending westward, with the central path crossing over North Cape.

The best places in Prince Edward Island to see the solar eclipse are:

• Summerside
• Bedeque
• North Rustic

Where to Stay: The charming Briarwood Coastal Cottages feature fully-equipped kitchens so you can avoid the crowds and dine in if needed.

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New Brunswick

Where better to watch an eclipse than an observatory? The William Brydone Jack Observatory was built in 1851 and is the oldest existing astronomical observatory in Canada. The surrounding University of New Brunswick campus has plenty of open green space for crowds. 

The city of Fredericton in New Brunswick is getting ready to welcome thousands of visitors for the solar eclipse, and will be hosting EclipseFest, a multi-day party leading up to the event. On the day of the solar eclipse, there will be free solar-eclipse glasses available at a watch party on Carleton Street.

The best places in New Brunswick to watch the solar eclipse are:

• Fredericton
• Woodstock
• Florenceville-Bristol
• Miramichi

Where to Stay: The Carriage House Inn is conveniently located near the William Brydone Jack Observatory and offers beautiful views of the St. John River.

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Mazatlán 

Combine a beautiful beach vacation in the charming town of Mazatlán along with a total solar eclipse viewing. The 13-mile boardwalk that lines the beach will be a perfect spot from which to watch. Mazatlan lies near the centerline of the eclipse, making it one of the best places in the world to watch the 2024 solar eclipse. Viewers in the town center will get to witness 4 minutes and 15 seconds of totality.

However, being situated in the southeastern part of town offers a slight advantage. Quintas del Mar resort experiences 4 minutes and 7 seconds of totality, whereas Playas del Sur provides 4 minutes and 18 seconds. The additional eleven seconds of totality will undoubtedly justify the journey once the eclipse is witnessed.

The best places in Mazatlan to watch the solar eclipse:

• Quintas del Mar resort
• Playas del Sur
• Mazatlan Malecon

Where to Stay: Treat yourself to a room at the five-star, all-inclusive Pueblo Bonito Beach Resort.

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Torreon

Surrounded by majestic mountains, Torreon will provide a beautiful backdrop to the eclipse. Torreon is another spot in Mexico that’s close to the centerline, making it one of the best places for a trip to watch the 2024 solar eclipse.

For the best views of the solar eclipse in Torreon, climb to the top of the Cerro de Las Noas hill. Or, head up route 49 toward Bermejillo in order to gain an extra 14 seconds of totality.

The best places in Torreon to watch the solar eclipse:

• Cerro de las Noas
• Fundadores Park
• The Regional University Unit for Arid Zones of the Chapingo Autonomous University

Where to Stay: The centrally located, affordable Ibis Torreon is a great choice for travelers on a budget.

Book Now

The post Where to Watch the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The world’s most powerful passports were just announced, and the United States didn’t make the top five. Each year, Henley & Partners, a residence and citizenship planning firm based in London, utilizes data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), to create The Henley Passport Index. The Henley Passport Index ranks the relative power of passports by the number of destinations a country’s passport holders can visit without needing to get a visa in advance. 

The 2024 index has six countries tied for the title of the most powerful passport in the world: France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain. Citizens of these countries can travel visa-free (or get a visa on arrival) to 194 destinations around the world. Japan and Singapore have held the top spot for the past year, but this year, they are joined by four European countries. This is the highest level of passport freedom the survey has recorded since it began 19 years ago.

United States passport holders can only visit 188 countries without obtaining a visa in advance, putting it as the number seventh most powerful passport in the world. The United States’ power position remains stable, as it was also in seventh place in 2023. 

The Most Powerful Passports in the World

These are the most powerful passports in the world, according to the Henley Passport Index. 

See the full list of the world’s most powerful passports here.

The post The World’s Most Powerful Passports 2024 appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The last federal government shutdown began in late 2018 and lasted for 34 days before ending in early 2019. During this time, a significant impact on travel was seen. 

Here’s what travelers should be prepared for if the government shuts down again.

Air Travel

Air Traffic Controllers and TSA agents are considered “essential” government employees and will still be required to work during a shutdown. However, these essential workers will not be getting paid until the shutdown ends—during the last shutdown, many employees called out of work (some to work other jobs to make ends meet). This resulted in air travel issues, including a ground stop at New York’s LaGuardia Airport after 10 air traffic controllers called out for the day.

At one point during the last shutdown, 10 percent of TSA agents nationwide didn’t show up to work, leading to long security lines at many airports.

The shutdown could have lingering effects on the air travel industry long after it ends, as the hiring and training of air traffic controllers would be halted during the shutdown. 

National Parks

National Parks will likely be officially closed during a government shutdown. However, gates may remain open at some parks so travelers can enter at their own risk. Park rangers will probably not be available to help if needed, and all services inside parks, including restrooms and visitor centers, will be locked and inaccessible. 

According to the National Parks Conservation Association, about a third of national parks closed completely during the last shutdown. Many parks that stayed open reported vandalism, overflowing trashcans and restrooms, and damage due to unsupervised visitors. 

Does Travel Insurance Cover a Government Shutdown?

If you’re dreading long airport lines and want to cancel your trip, you’ll need to have purchased a Cancel for Any Reason travel insurance policy for it to be covered due to a government shutdown. 

According to travel insurance site Squaremouth, even Travel Delay coverage won’t apply during a government shutdown, explaining, “The most common covered reason under Travel Delay is a delay of a common carrier due to inclement weather or a mechanical breakdown. Other covered reasons include being involved in a traffic accident on the way to the airport, lost or stolen passports or travel documents, or an injury or sickness that causes you to be late. However, delays in line for a security checkpoint are not covered.” This also means that if you encounter an unexpectedly long security line due to the shutdown and miss your flight, you won’t be able to get compensation. 

The post How a Government Shutdown Would Impact Travel appeared first on SmarterTravel.

ETIAS is not a visa, but rather a visa waiver, and it will be mandatory for all visitors coming to the EU from countries that do not require a visa (including the United States.) The new regulations will apply to nationals of more than 50 countries outside of Europe’s Schengen Area. 

Travelers will have to apply online for ETIAS and need a valid passport, email address, and a debit or credit card to pay the  €7 application fee.

The application will ask for basic biographic information such as name, date of birth, and passport details, along with a series of health and security questions.

According to the ETIAS site, the application might include questions on:

• Drug use
• Terrorism
• Human trafficking
• Travel to conflict areas
• Criminal history
• Employment history
• Past European travel information
• Security information

Applications will be checked against a series of security databases such as INTERPOL, and are intended to improve border security. 

Additional documentation could be required to complete the ETIAS application and must be provided by the applicant within 96 hours. Once received, it could take up to four weeks to be approved or denied—so it will be important to apply for the permit well in advance of your trip.

However, a lengthy processing time is not anticipated to be the norm—according to ETIAS, “Most applications will be processed within minutes.” Once the application is approved, travelers will receive a confirmation message and travel authorization via email. If visitors fail to complete the ETIAS ahead of their trip, they could be denied entry to the EU.

The ETIAS visa waiver will be valid for unlimited entries over three years and can only be used for stays of a maximum of 90 days.

The post Americans Will Have to Pay a Fee to Travel to Europe Starting in 2024 appeared first on SmarterTravel.