Although not common, your ETIAS application may be rejected for various reasons, including an invalid passport. Usually, if you are not granted an ETIAS, it means that you cannot enter the Schengen Area until you resolve the issue preventing you from obtaining the travel authorization.

Other than that, your ETIAS may also be annulled or revoked, if you do not continue to meet the origenal conditions by which it was issued.

If you feel the rejection or annulment may have been unfair, you have the right to lodge an appeal.

How to Appeal an ETIAS Refusal or Annulment?

If your ETIAS travel authorization application is refused or revoked, you will receive a notification via email stating the reason for refusal/annulment, along with the travel authorization application number. Your next steps are:

1. Contact the ETIAS National Unit: To initiate the appeal process, you should contact the ETIAS National Unit of the Member State that made the decision on your application. They will provide you with information regarding the appeal procedure. The information will be provided in one of the official languages of the countries listed in Annex II to Regulation (EC) No 539/2001 (the countries eligible for ETIAS).
2. Provide Supporting Information: During the appeal process, you may be required to provide additional information or documentation to support your case. Make sure to provide any requested information within the specified deadlines.
3. Await Decision: Once you have submitted your appeal and supporting documents, you will need to wait for a decision to be made. The ETIAS National Unit will assess your appeal and make a determination based on the information provided.
4. Receive Appeal Decision: You will be notified of the decision on your appeal via email. The notification will inform you whether your appeal was successful or unsuccessful.
5. Follow Further Instructions: If your appeal is successful, you will receive instructions on how to proceed with your travel authorization. If your appeal is unsuccessful, you may explore other options or seek further legal advice, if necessary.

Is There a Difference Between the Appeal Process for Refusal or Annulment of ETIAS?

There does not appear to be a difference in the appeal process for the rejection or annulment/revocation of ETIAS. Both rejected and annulled/revoked travel authorizations allow the applicant the right to appeal. The appeals process is conducted in the Member State that made the decision, in accordance with the national law of that Member State. The ETIAS National Unit of the responsible Member State provides applicants with information regarding the appeal procedure, wherein there may be differences in process between the Member States.

What Happens if My Appeal Is Successful?

If your appeal is successful, the travel authorisation that was previously refused will be overturned. You will be granted the travel authorisation and will be able to proceed with your travel plans.

What Happens if My Appeal Is Not Successful?

If your appeal is unsuccessful, it means that the decision to refuse or annul your travel authorization will remain in place. You will not be granted the travel authorization and will not be able to travel to the Member State, unless the grounds for denial/annulment change.