The new ETA electronic license for Europeans to enter the UK will be introduced tomorrow in major publicity for travel rules.
The government claims that the electronic travel authorization (ETA) will strengthen border security in the country.
Visitors from around 30 European countries, including all EU members except Ireland, need to bring an electronic license to enter the UK.
ETAs that Canada and other tax-free nationals have used since January can be purchased online using smartphone apps or through government websites.
From 9 April this will cost applicants £10 but will rise to £16.
Despite the sharp increase in licensing costs, successful applicants will be allowed to access for up to six months and will be valid for two years.
To apply, visitors are required to provide photos of their passports and faces. It takes about 10 minutes and most applications receive a decision within a few minutes, but some applications can take up to three working days.
The ETA is then digitally linked to the holder’s passport.
The British border of Heathrow Airport. Visitors from around 30 European countries, including all EU members except Ireland, are required to bring an electronic permit to enter the UK starting tomorrow
ETAs that Canada and other tax-free nationals have used since January can be purchased online using smartphone apps or online via government websites
Minister of Immigration Seema Malhotra, France 24said: “With digital immigration systems, we are paving the way for the contactless UK border.”
Under pressure from Heathrow, airport passengers will not be planned for changing flights without crossing the border.
The ETA first launched in 2023 for Qatar and five other Gulf countries, and then expanded it to 50 other countries.
By the end of 2024, nearly 1.1 million Etas were issued.
The plan’s expansion is as Eú prepares to launch its ETIAS program for visa countries including the UK and the US by 2026.
ETIAS application will be made using the official EU website and will cost 7 euros
The applicant should be determined within four days.
Once a traveler holds an ETIA, it will be valid for three years of travel.