Friday, November 29, 2024 The UK has officially announced the global rollout of its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme, aiming to transform how international travelers access the country. Introduced as part of a broader plan to digitize the UK’s borders by 2025, this system applies to millions of tourists and short-term visitors. By streamlining the entry process, the initiative is expected to have far-reaching implications for the travel and tourism industry.
The UK Home Office confirmed that the ETA system would be progressively introduced across different nationalities. Non-European travelers became eligible to apply on November 27, 2024, with the requirement coming into effect on January 8, 2025. Initially, this covers six million citizens from countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
The scheme’s phased rollout began with Qatar nationals on November 15, 2023, followed by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and Jordan in February 2024. Previously, these nations used a £30 (€34.30) single-entry Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW) valid for up to six months.
The ETA now replaces the EVW, offering a multi-entry option at a lower fee, providing a cost-effective alternative for frequent visitors. For European travelers, the new regulations take effect from April 2, 2025, with applications opening on March 5. This shift means millions of European citizens will need to adapt to the new process when planning visits to the UK.
The ETA application.
