An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is being rolled out from the first quarter of this year, which means that travellers heading over to the United Kingdom will soon face a new entry process.
The UK’s ETA system is similar to the official ESTA and eTA systems implemented in the United States and Canada.
It requires visa-exempt travellers (except British and Irish citizens) to apply for permission to travel in advance before they go on their trip. This is done simply through a brief online form and a fee payment.
Britain’s Home Secretary previously described this ‘permission to enter’ scheme, introduced via the Nationality and Borders Act 2022 Bill, as making it “easier for our friends to come to and contribute to the UK, but harder for those we do not want to come here”.
The European Union is also launching its own ETA system later this year, called ETIAS.
Although a departure from the current process, it’s actually rather straightforward.
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So, if you are planning on travelling to the UK, here’s what you need to know about the Electronic Travel Authorisation.
How does it work?
Prior to travel, passengers from eligible countries will have to complete an online form containing details such as their contact information, biometric data and travel plans, as well as a few simple eligibility questions.
These responses will then be checked against security databases. If the application is successful, the traveller should get their ETA within 48 to 72 hours.
When landing in the UK, the normal border procedure still stands, but with travellers having already been previously vetted, it should help the process move a bit faster.
It’s important to note that the ETA isn’t the same as a visa; it simply authorises individuals to board a plane and travel to the UK.
When does the UK ETA come into effect?
The phased rollout of the UK ETA system is set to begin in the first quarter of 2023, and should be fully established by the end of 2024.
It is expected to meet the following timeline:
- Q1 First Release: private beta testing phase.
- Late Q1 to early Q3 Second Release: Qatar, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia.
- Late Q2 onwards: Rest of the world.
Who can apply for the UK ETA?
The full details of the ETA are not yet available, but it looks like the list of countries eligible for the British ETA will be in line with the current visa exemption list. That includes those from countries in the EU and also Australia, New Zealand, the United States and Canada.
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How to apply
Once the ETA program is released to the public, travellers will need to apply for an ETA by visiting the Visa & Immigration page of the official government website.
What will it cost?
The cost of a UK ETA is still to be revealed, but looking at the fees for similar systems around the world can give you an idea of what to expect:
- the eTA for Canada costs CAD$7 (A$7.50)
- the European Union’s ETIAS will cost €7 (A$11)
- the United States’ ESTA is US$21 (A$29).
How long is it valid for?
The validity period for the UK ETA is yet to be released, but it is believed to be somewhere between two to three years – similar to other comparable schemes.
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What happens if I land in the UK without a UK ETA?
Travellers must present proof of their approved ETA to their carrier before boarding the plane. The UK Home Office says it will let carriers know the status of each passenger before they fly.
If a passenger arrives without an ETA, they could face a penalty charge.
Does the ETA replace a visa?
No, the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation applies to short stays of up to six months for tourism and business purposes only and does not replace a visa.
Those visiting for other purposes, such as living or working in the UK, still need to apply for an appropriate visa.
So if you’re visiting the UK this year, make sure you plan ahead and apply for the necessary paperwork in plenty of time.
Are you heading to the UK this year? What are your travel plans? Why not share them in the comments section below?