Tourexpi
European
visitors to the UK will now need an online entry permit as part of new travel
regulations introduced by the British government.
The
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, which took effect on Wednesday,
is aimed at enhancing border security and streamlining entry processes.
The
UK Border Force chief, Phil Douglas, described the scheme as a “border security
measure” and that no major disruption is expected following its launch.
The
ETA applies to nationals from around 30 European countries, including all EU
member states except Ireland.
How
the ETA works
The
ETA is digitally linked to the applicant’s passport and permits stays of up to
six months.
The
application process, available via smartphone app or the UK government website,
takes around 10 minutes and requires a passport photo and facial image.
Decisions
are usually made within minutes, but the Home Office advises applicants to
allow up to three working days.
The
permit is mandatory for all travelers, including babies and children, but those
transiting through the UK without crossing the border are exempt. This
exemption was introduced after Heathrow Airport raised concerns about losing
passenger footfall.
The
ETA is not required for UK residents or individuals with an existing UK
immigration status.
The
UK introduced the ETA last year for American, Canadian, and other visa-exempt
nationals, and Wednesday’s rollout is part of a wider plan to extend the scheme
to visitors from around the world.
Image
Credit: © AA
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