UK imposes online entry permit for European visitors

LONDON

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.