The extension of the program enabling French travelers to explore Jersey and Guernsey with just their identity card until 2025 is a godsend for lovers of these islands. Initiated after the BrexitThe renewed scheme reflects a clear desire to boost local tourism while making these destinations even more accessible to French visitors.
Program background and implementation
From October 1, 2021The rules for entry to the UK have changed for EU citizens, requiring a valid passport. However, to ease this transition, the Channel Islands of Jersey and Guernsey launched in April 2023 a special program for French tourists. It provides a gateway to their territories with just an ID cardbut only for overnight stays.
Extension to 2025
In order to continue attracting French visitors and boost local tourism, this program, initially scheduled to end in September 2024, has been extended. extended to September 2025. This means that the French can take advantage of this entry facility for a further tourist season. According to Mary Le Hegarat, Jersey's Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, this extension is essential to maintain tourist flows until the planned introduction of the electronic travel authorization (ETA) system in the UK.
Benefits for French tourists
For residents of the coastal regions of Normandy and Brittany, where sea links to the islands are frequent, this measure offers great flexibility and improved travel convenience. French people don't need a passport to enjoy a day trip to the picturesque landscapes of Jersey and Guernsey.
- Ease of administration You don't need a passport, just a valid identity card.
- Fast, convenient access Frequent sea crossings from Normandy and Brittany.
- Support for local tourism : Shops and services benefit from the influx of French tourists.
The impact of the future ETA system
From 2025, the UK plans to deploy the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)This will make online registration of passport details compulsory for all non-UK visa-exempt travelers wishing to enter the country, including Jersey and Guernsey. Identity cards will no longer be compatible with this system, which will put an end to the current program for French travelers.
Implications for future travel
Despite concerns that this privilege will be interrupted once the ETA comes into force, this measure should strengthen border security within the Common Travel Area (CTA). Rob Prow, MP for Guernseyunderlines the enormous success of this initiative since its inception, but also recognizes that its long-term continuation is hardly conceivable after the activation of ETA.
Economic impact
The program has had a major positive impact on the islands' tourism sector, with a noticeable increase in visitor numbers and, consequently, revenues for local businesses. By extending this exemption, local governments hope to continue capitalizing on this influx of French tourists for another year before having to adjust to the new measures imposed by the ETA.
Outlook for Heathrow
Meanwhile, the UK's leading airport, Heathrow, is keeping a close eye on the potential impact of ETA on its transit volumes. Although it recorded record passenger figures in July 2024, airport authorities fear that the introduction of ETA could significantly reduce the number of transit passengers, causing a drop in airport revenues and a slowdown in air traffic.
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