ISTANBUL

Turkish citizens will not need to apply for the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), the EU’s official representation in Türkiye confirmed on Monday.

"Since Türkiye is not a visa-exempt country, Turkish nationals do not fall within the scope of ETIAS," the EU Delegation to Türkiye said in a statement clarifying the new travel requirements.

The announcement addressed widespread disinformation about Turkish diplomatic and service passport holders needing to pay €7 ($7.28) for authorization under the new system.

Turkish diplomatic, service, and special passport holders, who already enjoy visa-free travel to the Schengen area, will continue to travel without requiring ETIAS authorization, the delegation confirmed.

ETIAS requires nationals from visa-exempt countries to obtain electronic travel authorization before entering the Schengen area or the Greek Cypriot Administration for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.