The United Kingdom (UK) will change its border control system with the expansion of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme.
This new digital system will roll out in stages from late 2024 and it is an attempt on behalf of the British authorities to modernize the UK’s immigration process, whilst protecting the UK’s borders more effectively.
Starting November 27, 2024, eligible non-European travelers will be able to apply for an ETA, which will then become mandatory for entry into the UK from January 8, 2025.
European Union citizens that want to visit the UK will be able to begin their applications on March 5, 2025, with the requirement coming into effect in a mandatory way on April 2, 2025.
This new system will apply to all non-British and non-Irish citizens, including those who currently do not need a visa for short stays. Irish citizens are exempt because of the Common Travel Area (CTA) arrangement, which is a long-standing agreement between the UK, Ireland, and the Crown Dependencies (Isle of Man and Channel Islands).
This agreement allows the citizens of the UK and Ireland to travel freely between the two countries.
How much will it cost to travel to the UK under the ETA system?
The ETA will cost travelers £10 (approximately €12/$13) and will be electronically linked to the traveler’s passport.
Those who successfully issue the ETA, will be able to conduct multiple entries into the UK for stays up to six months over a two-year period or until their passport expires, whichever comes first.
This digital authorization system is an attempt to streamline the process and clarify issues that arose following the UK’s exit from the European Union and the end of the freedom of movement between the UK and the EU.
It has to be noted that the UK has already implemented eVisa systems for individuals who need permission to live, work, or study in the UK.
This digital proof of immigration status is gradually replacing physical documents such as biometric residence permits (BRPs) and visa stickers, which are largely not used anymore.
Most BRPs are set to expire by December 31, 2024, and holders are urged to create online accounts to access their eVisas before expiration. The same digital system has applied to EU nationals who live in the UK following Brexit, as their Settled Status is only proven in a digital form.
According to the UK government website, ”The government continues to work closely with global airline, maritime and rail carriers, who are crucial to ensuring smooth implementation of our digitisation programme.”
