Europeans traveling to the United Kingdom will be required, starting on the 2nd of April, to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling. An ETA costs £10.00 or €12.00 and is now available online. However, the current price will increase to £16.00 in the future, but no date has yet been specified.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is already required for visa-exempt visitors from outside the European Union. Similar to those used in the USA and Canada, the British Authorities believe that by using an ETA, they can strengthen their border security.
From 10:00 yesterday, citizens of about thirty European countries – including all those in the European Union (EU), except Ireland – could start applying for a permit.
The request can be made through the “UK ETA” application or the British government’s website, in a process that should only take a few minutes, stated a spokesperson for the British Ministry of Home Affairs.
The system was launched in 2023 to “protect borders” through the digitalisation of the immigration system. An ETA allows its holder to stay in the UK for up to six months, in addition, to unlimited travel for two years, but the application must be renewed for any passport changes.
“ETA’s worldwide expansion confirms our commitment to strengthening security through technology and innovation,” commented the Secretary of State for Migration and Citizenship, Seema Malhotra.
Please note that British citizens and those with dual British nationality do not need to apply for an ETA. For further information and clarification, please visit https://uk-eta.com.
Samantha Gannon
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