Traveling to Europe’s Schengen Area is an exciting opportunity, and the introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) brings new changes to the entry process for citizens of visa-exempt countries. But what happens if your ETIAS application is rejected? In this guide, we explore the main reasons for ETIAS application rejections and outline the steps for appealing a rejection.
What Is ETIAS Application Rejection Appeals
ETIAS stands for the European Travel Information and Authorization System. It is an electronic entry system that allows citizens of visa-exempt countries to access the Schengen Area for short visits. Designed for security, ETIAS ensures safe travel while allowing passengers to move freely within the Schengen Zone.
As of 2024, visa-free travelers to the Schengen Area must obtain authorization under the ETIAS operation before their trip. The clearance is obtained electronically and is valid for three years as the date of issue is in view.
ETIAS Application Rejection Appeals; Can ETIAS Be Denied?
Generally, a large number of ETIAS applications are processed quickly; however, there is a likelihood that your application may experience a denial despite the regularity of approval. This may be affected if the system is aware of any problem or situation during the inspection of the application form.
Reasons for ETIAS Application Rejection Appeals
In this regard, getting to the heart with a Detailed account of ETIAS refusal is extremely crucial. According to an EU Commission official, here are the main reasons why an ETIAS application may be rejected:
1. Invalid Passport
Your passport can work as the biggest weapon you can have during the ETIAS visa application procedure. Once your passport is reported as missing, lost, stolen, misappropriated, or invalidated in the Schengen Information System (SIS), you will surely face an application refusal. Moreover, your passport must be fresh with a validity of 3 months as the date of departure and shouldn’t be physically broken or damaged either.
2. Security Risk
ETIAS considers if the applicants represent a threat to the Schengen nations, their populations, and other fellow tourists. Consequently, if you are deemed to be a threat, appeal the disapproval.
3. Illegal Immigration Risk
Well-intended to remain in the Schengen Area illegally despite holding ETIAS, these applicants may be refused with minimal consideration.
4. Epidemic Risk
People who are likely to visit from the area where the epidemic outbreak is high or who have recently been to the area must be screened and potentially their applications will be denied to curtail the epidemic in the country.
5. SIS Alert
If you have been implicated in the Schengen Information System (SIS) for refusal of entry or stay in the territory, missing persons, discreet checks, specific checks, or arrest for surrender, then your ETIAS application will likely be declined.
6. Incomplete Application
The lack of the required documentation is the usual reason for refusal. The absence of any precious information may raise issues that are not required. So, the best is that all information and documentation are provided instantly and accurately.
7. Missed Interview
If candidates are chosen from any particular application, they may be invited for an interview. In the case that you will not appear for this interview, as requested, your ETIAS application can be disqualified.
8. Inauthentic Data
The acceptability of your data, files, and documents is a critical factor in case there are doubts about their verifiability. This doubt may cause your application to be rejected.
ETIAS Application Rejection Appeals; What to Do If Your ETIAS Is Denied
The reason for your ETIAS application denial will be conveyed to you via a denial message that also holds information about the rejection type. You have options to consider:
1. Appeal the Decision
Any applicant whose ETIAS approval is denied has the right to appeal if they believe the rejection is incorrect or unfair. The denial message will provide a response similar to the above one but will explain the possible appeal process, including the time limit and any assistance from the national data protection authority.
2. Adjust and Reapply
This reason may assist you in re-working your application and re-applying for the same role in the future. However, you should list the reasons that your application was rejected and provide accurate material that will be used to revamp your new application.
ETIAS Application Rejection Appeals; ETIAS Annulment and Revocation
Your ETIAS travel authorization can also be annulled or revoked under specific circumstances:
1. Obtained Fraudulently
If a person misrepresented him-/herself through bribery or a fake identity on the ETIAS application, his/her ETIAS may be annulled or revoked.
2. Security Alert
If an alert of security is published by the time the approved ETIAS authorization is granted, it may be revoked.
ETIAS Application Rejection Appeals; What to Do If Your ETIAS Is Annulled
When it comes to the withdrawal of your travel order, you have the right to apply this decision in the first place. The process of appeal may be started in the state where the annulment decision had been made. You’ll be sent a guide by an ETIAS National Unit of the Schengen country on how to apply.
Also, it is only that the bureau turns down your travel authorization last time does not mean that the new application will also meet the same fate this time. All applications go through the application process and are evaluated based on all information available to the applicant.
No Immediate Schengen Visa Requirement
The current assessment process differs from the previous report, which stated that applicants with an inadmissible ETIAS application should apply for a Schengen Visa. However, a prior visa refusal does not automatically lead to future rejection. Each new application is now assessed based on the current criteria.
For individuals flagged in the Schengen Information System (SIS) or considered high risk to the EU, there are specific steps to follow. Travelers in this situation should contact the embassy of the country that rejected their ETIAS application or the country that issued the SIS alert.
In exceptional cases, if a new ETIAS application is denied, applicants can reach out to the embassy of the relevant Schengen country for further assistance and clarification.
Key Points for Reapplying
Correct Information:
Ensure that all information provided in the new application is accurate and complete. Review the reasons for your previous rejection and make necessary adjustments.
Updated Documentation:
If the rejection was due to missing or incorrect documents, gather all required materials and ensure they meet ETIAS standards before reapplying.
No Limit on Applications:
There is no limit to how many times you can apply for ETIAS, but each application will be evaluated on its own merits based on the information available at that time.
Appeal Option:
Alternatively, if you believe the rejection was unjustified, you have the right to appeal the decision instead of reapplying.
By addressing any issues from your prior application and ensuring all details are correct, you can increase your chances of receiving ETIAS authorization upon reapplication.
Traveling to the Schengen Area is an exciting opportunity. However, understanding the ETIAS application process, potential rejections, and the appeals process is essential for a smooth journey. Additionally, remember to double-check your application, provide accurate information, and address any concerns promptly to enhance your chances of ETIAS approval.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your application straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a ETIAS Authorization or a Long Stay Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our Immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas have a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need to visit Schengen Area. You can call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can help you.
