WHO NEEDS IT?
HOW LONG IS IT VALID FOR?
HOW TO APPLY?
VALID FOR UP TO 2 YEARS
The United Kingdom’s‘ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORISATION’ permit is now in full operation. This will mean that all non-United Kingdom nationals, except for Irish passport holders, will be required to gain permission before entering the country. The new ETA system is part of wider plans to digitise all borders. Replacing the single-use‘ Electronic Visa Waiver’ scheme, the ETA will offer multi-entry validity for up to 2 years.
NEW RULES FOR CYPRIOT PASSPORT HOLDERS
The ETA entry scheme has actually been in place for some time. Nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have been frequently using the system. The United States, Canada and Australia have also recently been added to the scheme that has now been extended to all European nationals. As a result, all non-British passport holders will have to apply online and pay up to €12 for a permit to enter the United Kingdom.
DIGITALLY LINKED TO PASSPORTS
Everyone travelling to the United Kingdom, including all children and babies, must apply for an ETA. The ETA will set entry suitability questions for all applicants. All applications are to be made online using the internet or a new smartphone app. Each applicant will need an email address, an electronic means of payment and a valid passport and all will receive a decision within three days. After verification, the ETA is digitally linked to each applicant’s passport. Travellers who are transiting through the United Kingdom and not crossing through border control will still need to apply for an ETA. Travellers who fail to produce a valid ETA will be fined.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Why is the UK introducing the ETA scheme?
The ETA is part of the UK’s plan to digitise its borders at all UK ports of entry by the end of 2025. The scheme is intended to reduce queues at borders by helping to speed up legitimate journeys to the UK.
How do I apply for an ETA?
An ETA can be applied for by filling out an online form. A valid passport, bank card, and email address are required and the permit is then sent to the email address used for the application within three working days.
How much does the ETA cost?
The ETA costs £10 or the equivalent in local currency.
How long is the ETA valid for?
An ETA lasts for two years and can be used multiple times during this period.
How long can I stay in the UK?
The ETA is not a visa but it does grant permission to enter the country. It allows applicants to stay in the United Kingdom for up to six months at a time. Valid reasons for visiting are tourism, visits to family and friends, business or short-term study.
Will I need a separate visa to enter the UK?
All visitors who currently do not have to apply for a visa will need to get an ETA before they travel. Travellers from countries that do not have visa-free entry agreements with the United Kingdom will still have to apply for the correct visa, as well as the ETA.
Who does not need an ETA?
British and Irish citizens and people who already have a visa or permission to live, work or study in the United Kingdom do not need an ETA. As well as these people, those travelling with a British overseas territories citizen passport and people who live in Ireland and are travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man do not need to apply for an ETA.
