The United Kingdom government has made a significant change to its new electronic travel authorization program just weeks later It is being launched for American travelers January 8.
Upon its launch, the UK’s ETA scheme – similar to that of the United States Electronic System for Travel Authorization Program and planned EU European Travel Information and Authorization System – This meant that non-visa travelers would have to apply for authorization to enter the country and pay a fee of 10 British pounds (about $12).
Unlike similar schemes in other countries, this fee also applies to passengers transiting the UK without the intention of passing through passport control.
Following a reaction from the UK aviation and airport industry, the British Government has reversed this decision: transit passengers will be exempt from ETA requirements. However, the government has also proposed increased ETA fees for other non-visa travellers.
Here’s what you need to know.
ETA Basics: What is it and who needs it?
The UK initially launched its ETA scheme in 2024 for visitors from Gulf Cooperation Council states. It expanded the program to include travelers from the US, Canada, Australia and other countries on January 8. It will be implemented in the rest of the EU in April.
The ETA program mandates that most non-visa travelers apply for permission before entering the country. The application process involves submitting personal information online and paying a fee, which was initially set at £10.
After a successful application, the eTA is valid for two years but is linked to your passport; Therefore, to renew your passport one has to apply again for a new eTA.
Travelers must apply online for ETA before travelling. It may take up to three business days to receive clearance. you can apply On the UK Government website or the UK Government app, available at iOS And Android,
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What are the ETA changes for transit passengers?
The UK Government’s initial plan required all travellers, even those connecting only through UK airports, to apply for an eTA. This decision affected the traveling passengers extensively London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Manchester Airport (MAN).
This decision proved controversial and received backlash from airlines. British Airways And Virgin AtlanticAnd also the airport operator. He argued that this rule was uncompetitive compared to other global centers in Europe.
Heathrow, in particular, warned that the policy could take away 4 million passengers a year as travelers choose hassle-free alternatives to continental Europe.
In response to industry pressure, the government has now announced a change: Airside transit passengers will no longer require an ETA.
The move aligns the UK with the practices of other major international centres.
Heathrow CEO Thomas Waldby said, “Removing air transit passengers from the ETA scheme is the right decision and we welcome it.” “It shows that the Government is listening to industry concerns and is willing to make the changes needed to strengthen the UK’s competitiveness and boost economic growth.”
However, it is worth noting that UK government It said the decision is temporary and “will be kept under review.” Given the initial uproar, no reversal seems likely any time soon.
Will ETA fees increase for everyone else?
While the discount is good news for transit passengers, the cost of an ETA could now rise by up to 60% for everyone else following new proposals from the UK government on Thursday.
The latest proposal would increase the fee from 10 to 16 pounds (about $20). For a family of four (including those traveling with infants), the cost of a trip to the UK will increase from 40 pounds (about $49) to 64 pounds (about $78).
The UK Parliament still needs to debate the legislation before it can be fully approved, and there is no clear date for when the price increase will take effect.
According to the Home Office, the ETA price increase and several other immigration system changes could generate an additional £269 million (about $328 million) per year.
Who still needs an ETA?
An eTA is required for most travelers entering the UK, except those who:
- hold a British or Irish passport
- Have permission to live, work or study in the UK
- You have a valid UK visa
- British Overseas Territories citizens traveling with a passport
Irish residents are exempted when entering from Ireland, the Isle of Man or the Channel Islands; However, they will need an eTA when traveling to the UK from other countries.
ground level
This exemption eliminates the need for additional paperwork and costs for those connecting through Heathrow or Manchester airports without entering the UK
The policy change is great news for the UK aviation industry and airlines looking to maintain competitiveness. However, the proposed higher ETA costs may add to the overall expenses of tourists.
Although the government has not confirmed when the potential fee increase could come into effect, it seems it is only a matter of time before it happens. Travelers should check for updates and ensure their ETA applications are up to date before booking travel.