A substantial majority of Europeans are rallying behind the idea of digital travel documents, recognizing their potential to streamline border procedures, enhance security, and simplify travel within and outside the Schengen area, according to a recent survey.
The survey, conducted by the European Union, revealed that 68% of respondents view digitalization of travel documents as a pivotal step to expedite border processes and boost overall security when traveling to or from the Schengen area. Specifically, 66% of Europeans expressed a preference for a single unified application at the EU level to manage digital travel documents, rather than dealing with separate applications for each Member State.
TRAVEL WITHIN OR OUTSIDE SCHENGEN AREA
Over 40% of those surveyed have already travelled within or outside the Schengen area, with tourism being the primary motivator. Notably, 27% of Europeans embark on such journeys at least once a year, underscoring the significance of efficient travel procedures.
Looking ahead, 66% of respondents expressed intentions to continue traveling within or outside the Schengen area, with 9% planning to do so more than twice a year and 27% at least once annually. Tourism remained the leading motivation, with 74% of travelers citing it as their primary reason for embarking on such journeys.
EASE OF TRAVEL
Interestingly, opinions were divided on the ease of travel within and outside the Schengen area. Approximately 48% of respondents considered it equally easy, while an equal proportion found it more challenging to travel outside the Schengen area.
The survey also probed into travelers’ experiences, with 45% reporting no travel-related problems in the past three years, including issues affecting themselves or their acquaintances.
When assessing the seriousness of potential travel issues, respondents ranked the loss or theft of passports or identity cards as the most significant concern, followed closely by the risk of personal data breaches and security threats due to inadequate resources.
In terms of policy preferences, a substantial 87% of Europeans expressed support for increased cooperation between the EU and its Member States to enhance border security within and outside the Schengen area, with 47% firmly favoring this idea.
Moreover, 77% of respondents endorsed the notion of the EU taking action to mitigate travel obstacles, while an overwhelming 77% believed it essential to expedite border procedures for Schengen area travel.
When it comes to digital travel credentials (DTCs), two-thirds of Europeans held a favorable view, with 58% citing shorter waiting times at border controls as a primary benefit. An additional 44% appreciated the convenience of sharing travel information in advance, leading to more straightforward travel preparations.
DIGITAL TRAVEL CREDENTIALS
The survey also delved into respondents’ technical capabilities, revealing that 80% possessed mobile devices less than five years old, suitable for tasks such as downloading travel apps, filling out administrative forms, and checking in online. Notably, respondents ranked downloading mobile applications as one of the easiest technical skills to use, underscoring the readiness of the European populace to embrace digital travel solutions.
In summary, the survey paints a picture of European travelers embracing the potential of digital travel documents to improve their travel experiences, enhance security, and streamline border crossings within and outside the Schengen area.
