European travelers visiting the UK now need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) under new rules introduced by the British government.
What is the ETA?
The ETA is a digital permit linked to the traveler’s passport, allowing stays of up to six months. It applies to visitors from 30 European countries, excluding Ireland.
what is the reason behind introducing ETA?
The UK government introduced the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enhance border security and streamline entry processes.
According to UK Border Force chief Phil Douglas, the system is a security measure to monitor travelers before they arrive. By requiring pre-approval, authorities can identify potential security risks and manage border control more efficiently.
Additionally, the ETA is part of a wider plan to modernize UK immigration procedures and align with similar systems used by countries like the US (ESTA) and Canada (eTA).
How to Apply?
Applications take about 10 minutes and can be done via a smartphone app or the UK government website.
Travelers need a passport photo and facial image.
Decisions are usually made within minutes, but it may take up to three days.
Who Needs It?
All visitors, including babies and children, must have an ETA.
Transit passengers who don’t cross the UK border are exempt.
UK residents and those with an existing UK visa or immigration status do not need an ETA.
The UK first introduced the ETA last year for travelers from the US, Canada, and other visa-exempt countries. This expansion is part of a broader plan to apply the system worldwide.
Who Does Not Need an ETA?
You do not need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) if:
You have a visa or permission to live, work, or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled status).
You are transiting through a UK airport without passing border control (check with your airline).
You are a British or Irish citizen.
You are traveling with:
A British Overseas Territories Citizen passport
A British National (Overseas) passport
You live in Ireland and are traveling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man.
You are a child traveling on the France-UK school trip travel information form.
You are exempt from immigration control.
You are exempt from obtaining permission to enter, including certain seafarers and crew members of ships, aircraft, or international rail.
Leave a Reply