I am somewhat surprised there is not an article in detail about the propsed new visa ETIAS for European travel for us Brits. What we all need to be clear about is what questions they ask of us with criminal records. I have read that they may ask for all convictions to be disclosed within a 10 year period historically, but then I saw it might actually be 15 years. We need clarity.

My SOR finishes in 2026 and if they want disclosure in the previous 10 years and I apply for a visa when it comes into force early in 2025, my details will be on record for 3 years (the period of the visa I think), which means when my conviction is SPENT the visa will still have my record listed. However, if they want us to disclose convisctions unto 15 years  I have no choice but to apply, and hope to get the visa. My plan, if it is 10 years, will be only to travel to NON EU countries in 2025 and 2026, such as TURKEY, ALBANIA, BOSNIA, CYPRUS where the visa is not relevent, then when my conviction is spent, apply  without having to disclose my past. 

I have spent my last 8.5 yrs covering my past to family friends by lying, and I am not naturally someone who likes lying, and it is stressful. In 2026 I want to be able to travel freely without stress and enjoy my last 10 years (maybe more - I am 71) of my life. 

Finally, is there any guidance as to the chances of NOT being allowed a visa because of a conviction?