THE Home Office has introduced a new system for visitors to the UK who do not currently require a visa. Under the new ETA rules, individuals from visa-exempt countries will now need to apply online for permission to travel to the UK prior to arrival.
The ETA program will be phased in gradually, and most visa-exempt nationals will not be required to apply electronically until 2024.
Objectives and operation of the ETA system
The aim of the system is to simplify the travel process and improve border security. It enables the British government to assess and be informed in advance about individuals planning to enter the UK, in order to prevent potential threats.
Similar systems exist in other countries, such as the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) in the United States, and ETA requirements in Australia, New Zealand and Canada. It is important to stress that holding an ETA gives permission to travel, but does not guarantee entry to the UK. Non-visa nationals may still have to prove the real reason for their visit on arrival at a UK port.
Who should apply for an ETA
Any traveller, including children of any age, who is a national of a visa-exempt country (or visa-exempt if applied for electronically) and is seeking to enter the UK as a visitor for up to six months (for reasons such as tourism, visiting relatives, business or short-term study) will need to apply for an ETA.
The ETA program will eventually apply to other categories of visitors to the UK, but no further details have been provided at this time.
Since October 25, 2023, Qataris can apply for an ETA for the UK. This electronic process exempts them from a physical visa, and will be required for travel to or transit through the UK from November 15, 2023. It still costs £10. It allows stays of up to 6 months in tourism and can be applied for by on the authorities' website or via their mobile application. It remains valid for 2 years from the date of issue, or on expiry of the passport if lower, regardless of the number of trips made to the UK.
Gradual introduction of ETA for other visa-exempt countries
From February 22, 2024, foreign nationals from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will also need to apply for an ETA to travel to the UK.
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