From today, travellers from 85 countries will have to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the United Kingdom.
Without this digital permit, passengers will not be allowed to board their flights, the UK interior ministry has confirmed.
The move is a tougher enforcement of the UK’s border control system in a move intended to reduce security and streamline entry procedures.
What Is the ETA Scheme?
The Electronic Travel Authorisation or ETA is an online pre-travel permit for visitors who do not require a visa to travel into the UK.
Applicants must go through the process online and pay for it, which costs 16 pounds (approximately $21.57).
The scheme was originally introduced in 2023, and then expanded to the European travellers in April last year.
Although it has been in place, authorities had not strictly enforced the requirement up until now.
Compliance Start Date February 25
As of February 25, the ETA is fully mandatory. Airlines have now been advised to refuse boarding to those who cannot present a valid ETA, eVisa or other approved travel documents before departing.
This change requries travellers to complete the process well in advance of their journey to avoid at the last minute disruptions.
Who Is Exempt?
UK and Irish citizens, including dual nationals are not required to obtain an ETA. Individuals who already have the legal right to live in the UK are also exempt from the new rule.
Government’s Position
Migration Minister Mike Tapp said the ETA programme was an important step towards improving border security.
He said it will produce a more efficient and modern entry system that will benefit visitors, as well as the British public.
Broadening of European Border Changes
The development comes after wider post-Brexit border reforms. In October last year, the European Union started rolling out their Entry/Exit System (EES) for UK nationals travelling into EU countries.
The digital system replaces manual passport stamping with electronic records.
