The ETA, or Electronic Travel Authorisation, is an electronic travel permit that will be required for all visitors who do not need a visa to enter the United Kingdom.
The ETA is similar to the ESTA, the electronic travel authorisation required for citizens of many countries to enter the United States.
The ETA will be introduced starting from 2024 and will be valid for a period of two years. Visitors who have been granted an ETA will be authorised to stay in the United Kingdom for a maximum of six months.
The exact date on which the ETA will come into effect for the UK is still being defined. The British government has announced that the ETA will be introduced starting in 2024 but has not yet specified the exact month or day.
Currently, the ETA has been successfully tested in some Gulf countries, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. The testing began in October 2023 and is expected to conclude in March 2024. After the conclusion of the testing phase, the British government will decide when to introduce the ETA for all visitors, including those from Europe.
It is possible that the ETA will be introduced for all visitors starting from the end of 2024, but it is not certain yet. The British government may decide to delay the introduction of the ETA to monitor the effects of the testing phase in Gulf countries.
To apply for an ETA, visitors will need to provide personal information such as their name, passport number, address, and contact details. They will also need to provide information about their travel, including the destination, date of arrival, and date of departure.
The application for an ETA can be made online, and the cost is £7.
The ETA is a security measure aimed at improving the security of the UK’s borders. It will allow the British government to pre-screen visitors who do not require a visa, providing an additional level of protection against terrorism and crime.
Here are some of the benefits of the ETA:
- Enhances UK Border Security: The ETA will enable the British government to pre-screen visitors who do not require a visa, providing an additional level of protection against terrorism and crime.
- Simplifies Visa Application Process: Applying for an ETA can be done online, making the process simpler and more convenient.
- Reduces Airport Waiting Times: Visitors with an ETA will be allowed to go through faster border checks at the airport.
The ETA is an important measure that will help keep the United Kingdom a safe and welcoming country for visitors.
