The British government announced last Tuesday that the the UK's new visa waiver program should be fully operational by the end of 2024. This system, which is an integral part of the country's new digital border strategy, will enable nationals of certain countries to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) at the border. initial price of £10.
Attractive rates to boost tourism
By offering a single ETA rate of £10The UK hopes to attract international tourists back by making it easier and cheaper for them to apply for visas. This measure is part of a worldwide trend to relax entry requirements for foreign travellers and encourage tourism. Indeed, many countries are seeking to improve their image or reassure tourists of the security they will find on site, as demonstrated by the various initiatives introduced around the world, such as e-visas, extended residence permits and even free air tickets.
A modern digital system to simplify procedures
L'British ETA will be based on a innovative digital system which will enable travelers to submit their application online, without having to physically visit an embassy or consulate. This approach aims to facilitate access to the UK, while enhancing border security through more effective controls.
The new visa-free price has only been confirmed for nationals of Qatar and other Gulf Cooperation Council states, as well as Jordanians, but it is possible that other countries will also benefit from this attractive rate, depending on agreements between the various nations.
Gradual roll-out for certain countries from the end of the year
The British government specified that theETA should be available for selected countries from the end of this year. However, the full digital border system will take a few more years to implement, with a target date of 2024 for full deployment. In this way, the authorities hope to be able to welcome more international tourists by then, contributing to the country's economic recovery after the difficulties associated with the Covid-19 pandemic and Brexit.
A crucial challenge for the global economy
Boosting tourism is a major challenge for the UK, as it is for many other countries. Indeed, it is, the tourism industry represents a major part of the global economyand the health crisis has led to a significant drop in revenues in this sector. Governments are therefore seeking to offset these losses by facilitating international travel and providing incentives to attract travelers.
The single tariff announced by the United Kingdom for electronic travel authorization is a key step in this global strategy, which aims to boost tourism and support economic recovery. It remains to be seen whether this measure will bear fruit and encourage more tourists to choose the UK as a vacation destination in years to come.
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