Starting April 9, EU citizens intending to travel to the UK will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). What’s more, they will have to pay a sizable fee just to apply for this program. Right now, the application is £10 (around $12.50), though that will increase to £16 (about $20) next month. The estimated time of arrival (ETA) is extremely important, not just for tourists, but for transit passengers. This is a big change to the current, much less stringent, requirements for travelers from EU member states.
The ETA would be valid for two years, permitting multiple entries into the UK over that period. This new requirement is in line with entry procedures utilized by many other countries. For instance, the United States has its own Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
Application Process and Fees
The ETA application process is very easy and user-friendly. Travelers need to fill the application online, which takes about 20 minutes and needs to be done in a single sitting. Follow this link to submit the application on the official government website. Or, go with the official mobile app created just for that.
If you’re applying for the ETA, it will be electronically attached to your passport. This link provides a simple way to check validation as you come into the UK. Crucially, every traveler to the UK, even children and infants, will need to have their own ETA.
Currently, travelers can look forward to a decision on their approved application within three days. If you need to travel urgently, you are permitted to come into the UK. This is something you can do now, in advance of a decision on your ETA application.
Exemptions and Validity
Though most EU citizens will be required to obtain an ETA before they can enter the UK, there are several exemptions. Citizens of certain countries who are already living in the UK do not require this permission to travel. The UK government has released a detailed list of 48 countries whose citizens will need an ETA in order to enter the UK.
Once you receive the ETA, it allows you to enter Canada repeatedly during a period of two years. This added flexibility allows you to travel to the UK multiple times within that period!
Comparison with Other Travel Authorizations
The UK’s ETA would play a similar role to the US’s ESTA. Both systems do lots of active pre-screening of travelers before they show up. This hardens our border security and increases efficiency at the points of entry on the border. The ETA’s introduction is the latest example of a move by countries to establish high and thick travel authorization screens.
Visitors will want to note that no matter how short a visit — or if they’re just transiting through the UK — an ETA will still be necessary. We know that being prepared before you travel makes all the difference. Compile and prepare all required documentation to support your application.
