In a major change for European travellers, the United Kingdom is extending its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement to include visitors from European countries, starting April 2, 2025. This move follows the initial rollout of the ETA programme, introduced in March 2023, which currently applies to nationals of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. As of January 8, 2025, the scheme will be fully implemented, making it mandatory for nearly all international travellers to obtain an ETA before entering or transiting through the United Kingdom.
What is the ETA Requirement?
The ETA is an online system designed to monitor and authorise individuals wishing to visit or transit the UK without the need for a full visa. The aim is to enhance border security and better manage the flow of foreign visitors into the country.
Travellers applying for an ETA will be required to pay a visa waiver fee of GBP 10 (approximately USD 13), similar to systems like the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), which are priced at USD 13 and EUR 7.50, respectively. The ETA will be valid for multiple visits over a two-year period, and children will also need to have an individual ETA.
However, Irish citizens will be exempt from the ETA requirement, in keeping with the long-standing arrangement under the Common Travel Area agreement between the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Impact on European Travellers and Global Visitors
As the UK prepares to extend the ETA requirement to European nationals, some are expressing concerns about the potential impact on tourism and travel. European visitors, who previously enjoyed visa-free entry to the UK for short stays, will now need to apply for the ETA and pay the non-refundable fee. This change will apply to all travellers who do not hold UK residency rights or a valid visa for work or study.
Yvette Cooper, the UK’s Home Secretary, has voiced her support for the system, noting that it will help close the current gaps in monitoring foreign entries into the country. She stated, “Once fully rolled out, the ETA scheme will close the current gap in advance permissions, and for the first time, we will have a comprehensive understanding of those travelling to the UK.”
The extension of the ETA system to Europeans is viewed as a significant shift in post-Brexit United Kingdom immigration policy. Previously, European travellers had enjoyed largely unrestricted access to the UK. However, post-Brexit border controls have made it necessary for the United Kingdom government to better regulate and monitor visitors, aligning more closely with international travel standards, like those seen in the United States and European Union.
Impact on the Tourism Industry
While the UK government believes that the introduction of the ETA will bolster national security, concerns are growing regarding its potential impact on the tourism sector. Some industry leaders warn that the additional administrative steps and fees may dissuade travellers, particularly those making short or spontaneous visits.
Heathrow Airport, one of the busiest travel hubs in Europe, has already reported a decline in transfer passengers on routes affected by the ETA. According to the airport’s authorities, there has been a 90,000-passenger reduction in transfer traffic, which may be linked to the new travel requirements.
However, similar visa waiver programmes, such as the US ESTA, have been in operation for years and have not caused significant disruptions to tourism. Experts predict that, once the initial adjustment period is over, the impact of the ETA will likely be minimal for most travellers. The UK remains a top global travel destination, and many visitors are expected to continue travelling despite the new entry requirements.
What Travellers Need to Know
Travellers planning to visit the UK after January 2025 should be aware of the new rules and make the necessary preparations to avoid disruptions to their travel plans. The ETA application process will be available online, and travellers are advised to apply well in advance of their departure date to ensure approval.
The UK government has also assured that the ETA will be processed quickly, typically within a few days, allowing visitors to plan their trips without major delays. However, travellers without an ETA will be denied boarding on flights or entry to the UK.
Additionally, it’s important to note that the ETA does not grant permission to work, study, or reside in the UK. Travellers must still apply for the appropriate visas if they plan to engage in these activities during their stay.
ETA Rollout Timeline: Key Dates
March 2023: Initial rollout of the ETA scheme for visitors from GCC countries.
January 8, 2025: Full implementation of the ETA scheme for all non-visa and non-residency visitors.
April 2, 2025: ETA requirement extended to European travellers.
Source: https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/united-kingdom-to-enforce-eta-requirement-for-international-travellers-including-bahrain-kuwait-oman-qatar-saudi-arabia-and-united-arab-emirates-and-europeans-starting-2025/
