UK's New Digital Travel System: What You Need to Know About the ETA
Introduction to the New Travel Regulations
London: Starting Wednesday, the UK has implemented new regulations that introduce a digital transit framework, mandating eVisas for Indian travelers and an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for visitors who do not require a visa.
This updated process will eliminate the use of paper visa stickers, transitioning to a more modern system. Although applicants will still need to visit an application center for biometric data collection, they will no longer have to surrender their passports during processing.
Mike Tapp, the UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, emphasized the importance of being prepared for travel to the UK, advising travelers to ensure they have the necessary permissions to facilitate a smoother journey.
Mandatory Digital Permissions for Travelers
Under the new rules, all visitors to the UK must secure digital travel permissions, meaning airlines can deny boarding to passengers lacking an eVisa, ETA, or other valid travel documents.
The UK government had previously introduced the eVisa system last year, allowing physical documents during the transition period, which has now concluded.
The eVisa offers a secure way for holders to demonstrate their immigration rights, as it cannot be lost or altered. The Home Office reassured that this transition will not affect existing rights or immigration statuses.
Transitioning to a Fully Digital System
As part of the initiative to fully digitize the UK border and immigration framework, individuals using physical biometric residence permits (BRP), passports with visa stickers, or biometric residence cards (BRC) will now transition to an entirely online UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) system.
The Home Office has been gradually phasing out physical documents for several years, with over 10 million eVisas issued thus far.
All eVisa holders, including those under the EU Settlement Scheme, must keep their UKVI accounts updated with their latest passport information to avoid travel issues.
Details on the ETA
Visitors from 85 countries, including the USA, Canada, and France, are now required to obtain an ETA for travel to the UK.
The ETA costs £16, allows for multiple entries, and is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Minister Tapp noted that the ETA scheme is crucial for enhancing the UK's border security, providing a more efficient service for both visitors and the British public.
Comparative Costs and Exemptions
The Home Office stated that the ETA fee is competitive compared to similar programs, such as the US ESTA, which costs $40, and the EU's ETIAS, expected to be priced at €20 upon implementation.
British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, are exempt from needing an ETA but must present a valid British passport or Certificate of Entitlement when entering the UK.
This approach aligns with practices in other nations, including the US, Australia, and Canada. Carriers may, at their discretion, accept some expired British passports as alternative documentation.
Connecting Flights and Future Developments
ETAs are also required for travelers connecting through the UK who must pass through passport control.
Since the ETA's introduction in October 2023, over 19 million applications have been processed, generating more than £383 million in revenue for reinvestment in the UK's border and immigration system.
Starting Thursday, Certificates of Entitlement will be issued digitally, allowing for a one-time application that does not expire with passports.
Conclusion and Application Process
The enforcement of the ETA scheme marks a significant advancement in digitizing the immigration system, paving the way for a contactless UK border in the future. This initiative also enhances border security by preventing entry to individuals who may pose a threat, according to the Home Office.
Applying for an ETA via the UK ETA app is designed to be quick and user-friendly, with most applicants receiving decisions within minutes, ensuring that spontaneous trips to the UK remain feasible.
However, it is advisable for travelers to allow up to three working days for their applications to be processed, accounting for cases that may require further review.
ETA applicants must provide biographic and biometric information and answer questions regarding their suitability and criminal history before their authorization is digitally linked to their passport.
The shift to eVisas is a crucial part of the UK government's strategy to modernize its border and immigration system, replacing physical documents with digital proof of immigration status for most new visa applicants and existing visa holders.