Coming from outside the EU? Here's Your 2025 Visa Guide!
Do Non-Europeans Need a Visa to Walk the Camino de Santiago?
Are you a non-European planning to walk the Camino de Santiago? Are you wondering about visa requirements? This guide will help.
Understanding the Camino de Santiago
The Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James, leads to Santiago de Compostela in northwestern Spain. This pilgrimage attracts travellers, pilgrims, and adventurers worldwide.
Visa Requirements for Non-Europeans
From 2025, non-Europeans will need an ETIAS authorisation to enter Europe. ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorisation System.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS is a travel authorisation waiver, not a visa. It enhances Schengen Area security and simplifies entry for non-European, visa-exempt travellers. The Schengen Area includes 26 European countries plus Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania.
Understanding the Essentials of ETIAS – Travel Authorization for the Camino de Santiago
ETIAS, or the European Travel Information and Authorization System, is not a visa but a travel authorization waiver designed to enhance security in the Schengen Area and simplify entry for non-European, visa-exempt travellers. The Schengen Area comprises 26 European countries, and ETIAS will also apply to Bulgaria, Cyprus, and Romania. Travellers can conveniently apply online by submitting their passport information and basic personal details. There is a small application fee, and the authorization is typically processed within a few days.
Once granted, ETIAS authorization is valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. This authorization permits short stays of up to 90 days within any 180 days in the Schengen Area. However, it's important to remember that ETIAS facilitates entry but does not guarantee admission. Border officials retain the right to deny entry if they assess you as a security risk.
ETIAS – European Travel Information and Authorisation System
How to Apply for ETIAS
Apply online with your passport and personal details. A small fee is required. Authorisation is usually processed within days.
Validity of ETIAS
ETIAS authorisation is valid for three years or until your passport expires. It allows short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Do You Need ETIAS for the Camino?
If you’re from a visa-exempt country, you’ll need ETIAS from 2025 to enter Spain and walk the Camino. If not, you must traditionally apply for a Schengen visa.
Benefits of ETIAS
There are numerous benefits to the ETIAS system. Firstly, it enhances security by pre-screening non-European travellers and identifying potential threats. This increases the safety of the Schengen Area and eases the workload for border guards. Secondly, for visa-exempt travellers, ETIAS offers a simple and efficient method to obtain entry authorization, making their travel to the Camino de Santiago and other European destinations more straightforward.
Steps to Get Started
1. Check Eligibility: Ensure your country is visa-exempt.
2. Apply Online: The ETIAS application takes a few minutes.
3. Wait for Approval: Processing takes a few days.
4. Travel Confidently: With approval, begin your Camino de Santiago adventure.
Summary: Visa for the Camino de Santiago
Walking the Camino is a life-enriching experience. For non-Europeans, understanding entry requirements is key. From 2025, ETIAS will simplify this process for visa-exempt travellers. While there is no guarantee of entry, it eases the procedure and enhances security. Start planning now and stay updated on ETIAS requirements.
Plan Your Camino Adventure
Contact us at Camino Companions for more information. We're here to help you prepare for an unforgettable journey. Visit www.caminocompanions.com to learn more and book your tour today!
