UK Government Announces Rollout of Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs)

The Voice of Chandigarh:

The UK Government has unveiled the next phase in the rollout of Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs), which will soon be mandatory for most visitors who do not require a visa.

By April 2025, all non-visa requiring travelers will need an ETA to enter the UK. Gulf Cooperation Council visitors are already subject to this requirement.

Key dates for ETA implementation include:

• 27 November 2024: Eligible non-Europeans can begin applying for ETAs.
• 8 January 2025: ETAs will be required for eligible non-Europeans.
• 5 March 2025: Eligible Europeans can start applying for ETAs.
• 2 April 2025: ETAs will be necessary for eligible Europeans.

The ETA, which costs £10, allows multiple entries into the UK for stays of up to six months at a time and is valid for two years or until the holder’s passport expires, whichever comes first.

This move aligns with border security practices adopted by many other countries. For more details and a list of eligible countries, visit the official GOV.UK website.