New UK Entry Rules: ETA Requirement Introduced for Travellers from 55 Countries

Starting January 8, 2025, travelers from 48 non-European nations, such as the US, Australia, Hong Kong, and Singapore, must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK. This new rule affects individuals who previously could travel without a visa for short visits. The list of 48 countries now includes Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, which have already been subject to the ETA requirement since November 2023.

Key Details

Who Needs an ETA:
- Starting January 8, 2025, travelers from 48 non-European countries must obtain an ETA.
- Beginning April 2, 2025, visitors from Europe will also be required to have an ETA, and applications will be available from March 5, 2025.
- There are exceptions for British and Irish citizens and travelers who need a visa and who will not be required to obtain an ETA.
Cost and Validity:
- The ETA is priced at £10 and allows multiple trips up to 6 months within two years.
- You can apply online or through a unique app.
Security and Compliance:
- Travelers’ criminal backgrounds are reviewed through the ETA process before their arrival.
- If an ETA is not approved, they must apply for a visa, which may take extra time.

Impact on Travellers

Potential Challenges:
- Travelers who arrive without an ETA will not be allowed to enter the UK, even if they are just in transit.
- Airlines might not refund tickets for passengers with denied ETA applications.

Comparison to Other Systems:
- Similar to pre-travel checks like the US ESTA, Australia’s ETA, and Canada’s eTA.
- The EU plans to introduce the ETIAS system in late 2025.

Industry Reaction

Preparedness:
Business travel experts believe the industry is ready, citing familiarity with similar systems elsewhere.
Advice for Travellers:
- Plan travel well in advance.
- Ensure applications are submitted early to avoid delays or disruptions.

The UK is taking this step to modernize its borders, improve security measures, and ensure that its travel procedures comply with international standards.