The experience of travelling to the United Kingdom is set to get different this year. Recently, the UK government has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, bringing new criteria and mandated guidelines to be followed by travellers from different visa-free countries worldwide. Continue reading for information about this new system and a pre-travel authorisation procedure.
UK Government Announced ETA Scheme For Travellers From 48 Visa-Free Countries
Recently, the government stated necessary information about a new scheme for travellers heading to the UK from a total of 48 visa-free countries. With this digital approval programme, every visitor from these countries must complete a pre-travel authorisation process. According to a report by NDTV, visitors from Australia, Canada, the United States and more non-European countries need to follow a set of guidelines.
In 2024, this scheme was launched only for Gulf Cooperation Council countries’ nationals. Now, the UK government decided to implement it in more countries in different parts of the world. Nationals and residents of the UK do not need to follow this new system even after carrying passports from these countries. However, EU nationals will need this ETA.
This ETA scheme by the UK government is a mandated requirement for travellers visiting the UK for business, tourism purposes, and studying for a short time. They can stay in this European country for six months. This digital scheme is a necessity for travellers, no matter what their age is. EU nationals will need it from April 2, 2025.
Travellers from many countries still need a visa to travel to the UK. They can simply enter this beautiful country with their visas without the mandated guideline of an ETA.
How To Apply For The ETA?
- Visitors planning to travel to the UK can apply for this application on the UK government’s official website or the ETA mobile application.
- Paying a non-refundable fee of £10 (approx. ₹1,057) is a must.
- This ETA will come with a validity of two years.
Carrying this ETA, visitors can visit the UK several times. It is crucial when renewing passports as it is linked to the passport.
Remember that this ETA is just for the UK and not other European destinations.
What are your views on this scheme?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE. First Published: January 14, 2025 1:03 PM