US citizens will soon have to apply for a permit before visiting the United Kingdom and pay a small entry fee as part of the country’s upcoming Electronic Travel Authorization scheme.
According to an official at the British Consulate General, the ETA scheme aims to secure the UK’s borders by providing more accurate information about who has crossed them. The move is part of a plan to fully digitize the UK’s borders by 2025.
“The scheme will give the UK greater control over our borders, allowing us to stop threats from entering the UK, while also giving individuals and carriers greater assurance that they can travel to the UK at an earlier time.” according to UK government website.
The scheme should be fully implemented by the end of 2023 “travel permit” request will apply to travelers visiting or transiting the UK without a visa or special immigration status, including visa-exempt nationals such as the US. However, being granted travel authorization via an ETA is not a regular visa.
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Other countries already have an ETA process. In 2022, the United States implemented demand it costs $21 for certain visitors. The European Union is also trying to create an ETA.
Here’s what we know so far about the UK’s upcoming ETA scheme.
How will the ETA process work?
The new scheme shouldn’t be too much of a burden on your trip planning. According to officials, the application process is expected to be quick and easy.
The application process An ETA can be made online in minutes. Travelers should make sure they complete the process “a few days before leaving for the UK”. To apply, people need a valid passport, travel details, a valid email address and a credit or debit card for online payment.
Typical processing time for approval will be between 48 and 72 hours. Any errors in your application may delay its processing time or result in its rejection.
Once approved, you will be able to stay in the UK for business or tourism purposes for up to six months. Short-term education and medical treatment are also valid purposes for ETA.
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Who will ETA apply to?
Citizens without a visa They will have to apply for an ETA. The list of confirmed countries will be announced at a later date, but is expected to include:
- European Union
- Other European countries such as Norway, Iceland, Andorra, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Vatican and Monaco
- Visa-free countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United States
How long will the ETA be?
Officials said the fee, though small, would be the exact price not yet announced.
How long will the ETA be in effect? Do I need to apply for each visit?
ETA will likely be valid for two years and allow multiple visits to the UK
What if I don’t apply for an ETA?
The permit will be verified before travel and carriers will check people’s forms either with a printed document or digitally. Arriving without a travel permit can result in a fine.
The Citizenship and Borders Act will also make it a criminal offense for someone to use it fraudulently to obtain an ETA.
