Last Updated on February 19, 2023 by Tracey Roberts
Starting soon, individuals from countries exempted from visa requirements (non-visa nationals) will be required to obtain approval and pay a fee under the upcoming Electronic Travel Authorization system to enter the United Kingdom.
A United Kingdom Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a British entry permit document that will soon be available online.
The new Electronic Travel Authorization system, set to be introduced this year, will require citizens of all current visa-exempt countries to pay a fee and apply for an E Visa to enter the UK. If you are eligible to apply for a First Time British passport now is the best time to do so, you will save yourself the cost and headache of needing to apply and pay for an E Visa in order to enter the UK. Now is also a great time to ensure that your British Passport is valid and is not set to expire soon.
The introduction of this travel fee aims to enhance border security by providing more precise information about travelers, as explained by a representative of the British Consulate General. The initiative is in line with the U.K.’s objective to digitize its borders entirely by 2025.
The scheme will give the U.K. more control of our borders, allowing us to block threats from entering the U.K., whilst also providing individuals, and carriers, with more assurance at an earlier point in time about their ability to travel to the U.K.,” according to the U.K. government website.
When will the travel authorisation scheme come into effect?
The “permission to travel” mandate, which applies to visitors traveling to or via the United Kingdom without a visa or special immigration status, is planned to be fully operational by the conclusion of 2023.
This requirement will be applicable to individuals who are exempted from visa requirements, including citizens of visa-free countries such as the United States. However, it is important to note that receiving authorization to travel through the ETIAS program is not equivalent to obtaining a traditional visa.
How will it work?
Officials have indicated that the application process will need to be completed online, before your planned travel date. It is advisable to complete the process at least a few days before traveling to the United Kingdom.
To apply, travelers will need:
- a valid passport,
- travel information,
- a valid email address,
- and an online payment method using a debit or credit card.
It has been stated that after submitting the application, the standard processing time for approval will be approximately 48 to 72 hours.
As with any official application, any inaccuracies or omissions in the application may result in a delay in processing or rejection of the application.
Once authorization is granted, visitors may remain in the United Kingdom for up to six months for tourism or business purposes. The authorization also covers short-term study and medical treatment purposes.
Who will need to apply?
The confirmed list of countries will be announced at a later time but it will likely include the following regions:
- The European Union.
- Other European countries like Norway, Iceland, Andorra, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Vatican City and Monaco.
- Visa-exempt nations like Australia, Canada and the United States.
How much will it cost?
The fee for the Electronic Travel Authorization scheme has not been disclosed yet.
Why now is the best time to enter Britain on a UK passport and a better time than ever to ensure your British Passport is valid.
With the introduction of the new Electronic Travel Authorization scheme in the United Kingdom, now more than ever is the optimal time for British nationals to ensure that their passports are valid and up to date.
The new system will require citizens of all current visa-exempt countries to pay a fee and apply for an E Visa to enter the UK. If you are eligible to apply for a First Time British passport now is the best time to do so, you will save yourself the cost and headache of needing to apply and pay for an E Visa in order to enter the UK.
British passport holders can enter the UK visa free.
A valid passport is the most crucial document for travel, ensuring that it is valid and up to date will prevent any issues or complications when entering or exiting a foreign country.
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