UK ETA system rolls out ! Starts April 2nd

[CharlieH]

New £10 Charge for Most UK Visitors as ETA Travel Scheme Launches

 

Starting from April 2, 2025, the majority of overseas visitors to the United Kingdom will be required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in advance of their journey. The Home Office aims to establish a more efficient and secure digital immigration system for the millions of travelers entering the UK annually.

 

According to the government, “everyone wishing to travel to the UK—excluding British and Irish citizens—will need prior authorization to visit,” which can be obtained through either an ETA or an eVisa. While most leisure and business visitors do not currently need a visa, the introduction of the ETA will apply to all non-Irish overseas visitors.

 

Ministers assert that the global rollout of this scheme will help prevent misuse of the immigration system. However, they have rescinded the unusual requirement for travelers in "airside" transit for a few hours to secure an ETA.

 

What is the ETA?

 

The UK is enhancing its entry protocols by requiring more detailed pre-travel information from visitors, regardless of their origin, prior to boarding flights, ships, trains, or when crossing from Ireland into Northern Ireland. Until now, only a limited number of arrivals were ineligible for visa-free entry and had to apply for an eVisa. Beginning April 2, 2025, all non-Irish European visitors will also need to obtain an ETA.

 

Similar to the US Esta system and those in Canada and Australia, ETA applications can be submitted online either through an app or the official website. Applicants will need to provide a photograph and respond to questions regarding their suitability and criminal history. This initiative aims to screen visitors and prevent entry of individuals considered dangerous.

 

Each ETA is linked to the traveler’s passport and costs £10, payable through various methods, including major credit cards and mobile payment platforms. The authorization will allow for multiple stays of up to six months over two years or until the passport expires.

 

 ETA Processing Time

 

According to the Home Office, decisions on ETA applications are typically made within three working days, with many applicants receiving faster responses. In practice, most permits may be issued almost instantly. Notably, travelers are not required to have an ETA in hand before starting their journey, but they must apply before arriving in the UK.

 

 What if an ETA Application is Denied?

 

If an application is rejected due to an error by the applicant, they will be informed of the reasons and can apply again. However, if the refusal is based on unsuitability, there is no right to appeal. Those with criminal records or prior entry refusals may consider applying for a standard visitor visa instead.

 

Who Verifies ETA Status?

 

Airlines and ferry companies will be responsible for checking ETA status before boarding. They will face penalties if they fail to do so, with fines of up to £2,000 for inadequately documented arrivals. In certain cases, UK Border Force staff will check ETA compliance while travelers are still in continental Europe.

 

A notable exception lies in Northern Ireland. Tourists visiting the Republic of Ireland are required to obtain an ETA if they inadvertently enter Northern Ireland, but there are currently no mechanisms for verifying their status.

 

Does an ETA Guarantee Entry?

 

No, the Home Office clarifies that holding an ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK. Travelers must still present themselves to a Border Force officer or use an ePassport gate.

 

How Does the £10 Fee Compare to Other Countries?

 

The ETA fee is competitive compared to similar systems around the world. For context:

- Australia offers free eVisitor permits.

- Canada charges C$7 (£4), valid for up to five years.

- The EU’s upcoming Etias scheme will cost €7 (£6) for up to three years.

- The US Esta is $21 (£16) for a two-year validity.

- New Zealand’s NZeTA costs NZ$17 (£8) for two years, plus an additional International Visitor Levy.

 

The Home Office has indicated plans to increase the ETA fee to £16 in the future, subject to Parliamentary approval, but no timeline is established yet. Some unofficial commercial sites offering ETA services have emerged, charging up to $99.99 (£78) in addition to the official £10 fee.

 

Do Transit Passengers Need an ETA?

 

Transit passengers who remain “airside” at airports like Heathrow or Manchester do not need an ETA. However, those going through passport control will be required to obtain one.

 

 Unique Status of Irish Citizens

 

Irish citizens enjoy free movement to the UK under the longstanding Common Travel Agreement, allowing them to bypass the new ETA requirements.

 

as reported by Yahoo

[roo860]

What about the dinghies arriving, will they be able to pay COD? 😁

[Watawattana]

Perhaps should be price-matched with what UK people are charged?  E.g. should be £16 for US visitors to match what the US charges.

[ipeterrobinson17]

I presume visitors who already have a visa don't need to pay this, is that right?

[theoldgit]

4 hours ago, ipeterrobinson17 said:

I presume visitors who already have a visa don't need to pay this, is that right?

 Yes, as clarified in the original post this is for visitors who do not require a visa.