QnA Schengen Visa
Will ETIAS replace the need for a Schengen visa for certain travelers?
Outbound Team
No — ETIAS will not replace the Schengen visa for any traveller.
ETIAS is only for visa-exempt nationalities, while the Schengen visa is still required for those who already need one today.
Here’s the clear breakdown:
🚫 1. ETIAS is not a visa
It’s a pre-travel electronic authorisation, similar to the US ESTA.
It does not replace visas and does not allow working, studying, or long stays.
🌍 2. Who will use ETIAS?
Travellers who already enter Europe without a visa — such as Singaporeans, Malaysians, Americans, Japanese, Australians, and British citizens.
These travellers remain visa-free but must apply for ETIAS before entering.
🛂 3. Who will still need a Schengen visa?
Travellers from countries like India, Indonesia, Philippines, China, Vietnam, Nigeria, Pakistan, and others.
ETIAS does not change their requirements — they must still apply through the embassy.
🔄 4. ETIAS and Schengen visas serve different purposes
• ETIAS is online, cheap, fast, and for visa-exempt travellers.
• The Schengen visa is embassy-based, document-heavy, and for travellers who need permission to enter.
One cannot replace the other.
💡 Outbound Singapore Tip
If you’re from a country that currently needs a visa, nothing will change — you still need the Schengen visa, and we support you step by step.
If you’re visa-exempt, ETIAS will simply become a quick online requirement once launched.