As of this Wednesday, March 5, the United Kingdom is set to open its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) registration to European citizens, marking a significant shift in the country’s border security measures. This new system, which will become mandatory for travel to the UK starting April 2, aims to bolster the nation’s border control. Although the ETA system has been in place since the beginning of the year for non-European travelers, it is now being extended to citizens of the European Union.
The application process for the ETA can be completed online through the UK government’s website or via the UK ETA app, with the authorization being directly linked to the traveler’s passport. The current cost of the permit is 10 pounds sterling, approximately 12 euros, and is valid for two years, allowing for multiple trips with stays of up to six months. However, it’s anticipated that the price will increase to 16 pounds, roughly 19 euros, in the coming months.
According to the UK Embassy in Spain, this measure is part of a broader digital immigration system designed to streamline processes and enhance security. The UK Ambassador to Spain, Alex Ellis, emphasized that while the ETA functions similarly to other permits used by countries like the United States or Australia, it does not constitute a visa.
To apply for the ETA, travelers will need a biometric passport, an email address, and a credit or debit card for payment. The system promises a response within three working days, although in some cases, the process may be resolved more quickly. Nevertheless, it’s recommended that travelers apply in advance to avoid any issues during their journeys.
It’s worth noting that this new regulation applies to all travelers, including infants and children, except for those who already hold a visa, a UK residence permit, or are traveling in transit without leaving the airport. Additionally, British, Irish, or Irish residents traveling from Ireland are exempt from this requirement.
This development reflects the growing international trend towards digitalizing border controls. The European Union is also planning to introduce a similar system, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), set to launch in the spring of 2025, with a cost of seven euros and a validity of three years.
With the implementation of the ETA, the UK is taking a significant step towards modernizing its borders. However, this measure also represents a substantial change for the millions of European tourists who visit the country each year, particularly those from Spain, which accounts for around two million travelers annually. As the UK continues to evolve its immigration policies, it will be interesting to see how this new system impacts the flow of travelers and the country’s overall approach to border security.
Some key points to consider about the ETA include:
- The application process is entirely online, making it relatively straightforward for travelers to obtain the necessary authorization.
- The ETA is not a visa but rather a digital permit that allows for multiple entries into the UK over a two-year period.
- Travelers are advised to apply for the ETA in advance of their trip to avoid any potential delays or issues.
- The UK’s introduction of the ETA is part of a broader global shift towards digital border controls, with the EU’s ETIAS system expected to follow suit in the near future.
As the travel landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential for travelers to stay informed about the latest developments and requirements for visiting the UK and other destinations around the world.