Many people wonder what are the requirements and documents to enter the European Union, here we have made a detailed description of the most important to avoid complications with the immigration authorities.
Before reviewing the requirements, we advise you to check if your country is on the list of visa exempt countries. here. If you require a visa, you will have to apply for it at your country's embassy depending on your travel intentions.
Although some people claim that the immigration officers did not ask them for anything. But in case you are asked for any of the following documents and you do not have them, your entry to Europe may be denied. The best thing to do is to prevent any mishap that may complicate your experience.
Requirements and documents to enter the European Union:
International identification document
Valid passport in good condition. It must be valid for 6 months after your departure from the European Union.
ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation Form) procedure
ETIAS is a pre-existing travel authorization to Europe. It will be implemented and mandatory only from November 2023. To find out how to apply for it our article on requirements, documents and recommendations for ETIAS processing.
*ETIAS update, January 2023: not yet implemented.
Entry and exit tickets to and from the European Union (Schengen Zone)
To travel to Europe you must have the exit ticket within 90 days, which you are exempt from visa. If you do not have them, it is very likely that in your country of origin they will not let you board the plane or, in immigration they will make you buy the exit ticket or even send you back to your country of origin with a penalty of not being able to enter the European Union in 5 years.
Financial resources to cover all your expenses
You will have to prove to the immigration officials that you have the money to support yourself in Europe. The recommendation is to have a minimum of €1000 per month per person. These resources can be presented in cash and up to an amount of €10,000, in your bank account or in your sponsor's bank account.
Evidence of what you are going to do on your visit to Europe
If the immigration officer asks you about your travel intentions, you must be clear and concise with the information and evidence you present. If it is for study, you must present the letter of acceptance from the educational institution and the receipt of payment of your course. If it is for tourism, you must present the reservation of your air tickets, transportation, activities, places and countries to visit.
Lodging reservation
It is very important that you can prove where you will be staying during your stay in Europe. In case you are traveling for study purposes, you will need to prove a reservation for the first few days, ideally 7 to 10 days.
Travel insurance
Our recommendation is that you always travel with an insurance that covers you in case of illness or accident. Some credit cards offer this free medical insurance, ask your bank if you have this benefit. As a student, it is advisable that your insurance has a coverage of up to €50,000.
Recommendations when migrating to Europe:
The presentation of documents in migration
In order to avoid unforeseen events and confusion, it is best to bring all the documentation, mentioned above, printed and in a folder. If your trip is scheduled for the end of 2023, do not forget to process the ETIAS in time.
Project tranquility and security with your answers
You must be honest and clear with each of your answers. Do not hesitate when you are asked if you plan to stay in Europe. Always emphasize that you are coming exclusively for study or tourism and you must return to your country of origin to continue your life.
About the purpose of your trip/visit
Your intentions for visiting Europe must be clear and match the supporting documentation you have with you. Where will you be? How many days? Why do you want to visit these places? When will you return to your home country? These are some of the questions you may be asked.
If you are coming as a student, you should be aware of the duration of your course, the hourly intensity, the name of the educational institution and the value of the course. This information should be the same that appears in your letter of acceptance.
Come with the support of experts in study and migration issues.
Boom Studies is a legally registered agency in Europe, with representatives in several countries and internationally certified for the quality of its study abroad consulting services. Our guidance and support is free of charge.
