A fee and online application will soon be necessary for U.K. travel
Air travel has been stressful since the pandemic began. Now, more restrictions appear to be coming into effect, which could discourage tourists from visiting an otherwise wonderful destination.
Beginning in 2024, visitors to the United Kingdom will require more advanced preparation than in the past. The U.K. is currently implementing a new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system that will require tourists, even those from visa-free countries like the United States, to secure authorization to enter the United Kingdom prior to arrival.
According to Travel + Leisure, the introduction of the ETA is a step toward the United Kingdom’s goal of having fully digital borders by the year 2025.
“We are introducing a universal ‘permission to travel’ requirement, which will require everyone wishing to travel to the U.K. (except British and Irish citizens) to seek permission in advance of travel,” addressed the British Government in a fact sheet.
“Our number one priority is the security of the UK border and by launching ETAs we can ensure that everyone wishing to travel to the UK has permission to do so in advance of travel and refuse those who pose a threat,” Priti Patel, the U.K.’s Home Secretary elaborated in a statement.
The online ETA application form will require travelers to submit basic personal details, travel information, passport information, a correct email address, as well as some security protocols. The U.K. government has confirmed that the application will require a fee, though it hasn’t yet disclosed what it is yet. AFAR pointed out that to complete the application and pay the fee, you will also require a credit or debit card.
To be clear, the ETA is a digital entry permit into the United Kingdom, not a visa. Anyone visiting the UK for business, pleasure, short-term study, or a medical procedure will need to have an ETA. According to ETA UK, which will eventually be the informational website for completing ETA applications once the system is in place those intending to work or actually live in Britain long-term will need to get the proper visa.
ETA UK also confirms that requests will be processed in 48 to 72 hours, and once the ETA is obtained, travelers would then typically be able to remain in the U.K. for a maximum of 180 days (6 months) and visit any region of the nation.
Don’t let this derail your plans for an epic trip to the UK; it doesn’t seem like much of a hassle for someone who really desires to organize a vacation there.
Evie Blanco is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience who was born in the Dominican Republic and raised in Queens, New York. She is extremely well-versed in hip-hop music and culture and is always aware of any developments within it. Whether it’s the latest in pop culture, a fascinating foreign destination, a truly amazing new restaurant, or breaking news, she loves to write about it all.
This story was originally published February 3, 2023 at 9:04 AM with the headline "A fee and online application will soon be necessary for U.K. travel."