Comprising of three units, the ETIAS Information System, The ETIAS National Units, and the ETIAS Central Unit, each of which have their own role within the smooth running of the ETIAS system.
The ETIAS Information System will be charged with:
- Managing a Central System to process each application.
- In each of the Member States, there will be a National Uniform Interface which will connect the national infrastructures and the Central System.
- Secure communication infrastructure for liaising between the Central System and National Uniform Interfaces.
- Desktop website, and mobile applications for iPhone and Android devices.
- Applicant tools including online applications, email verification services, account management, and user personal data management.
The ETIAS Central Unit will be charged with four main areas. This unit is to be established and managed by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, operating 24/7, and will sit within the legal and policy framework. They will focus on the following:
- Applicant data storage
- Travel application verification – where an application is flagged for further investigation
- Testing, strengthening, and implementing ETIAS screening framework.
- Auditing the application process, and screening rules with an emphasis on data protection, privacy rules, and fundamental rights.
ETIAS National Units are to be set up in each of the member states, and they will have the main responsibility of risk assessment and making the ultimate decision on travel authorization for applicants who have been rejected by the online automated application process. These units will also be tasked with providing information relating to the procedure which will occur if an appeal is to take place.
ETIAS Screening Board is to be made up of one representative from each ETIAS National Unit, Europol, and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency. Created as part of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency, and will work on an advisory level. Their principal role will be in the definition, evaluation, and revision of risk indicators, and, of course, to implement the ETIAS watchlist.
Fundamental Rights Guidance Board will determine and assess the effect on fundamental rights from the application process and relay their findings back to the ETIAS Screening Board. Made up of representatives from the European Data Protection Board, The European Data Protection Supervisor, the Fundamental Rights Agency, and the European Border and Coast Guard Agency.