The UK government is set to introduce Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for millions of visitors, including six million travelers from the USA, Canada, and Australia. The British High Commission in St. Vincent and the Grenadines announced that, starting November 27, 2024, all eligible non-European visitors will be required to apply for an ETA to enter the UK. The new requirement will take effect for travel starting January 8, 2025.
In 2025, the ETA will also be available to eligible European visitors, who can apply from March 5, 2025. They will need the ETA for travel starting April 2, 2025.
By April 2025, all visitors who do not require a visa for short stays and lack UK immigration status will need an ETA. This expansion follows the successful introduction of ETAs for Gulf Cooperation Council nationals earlier in 2024. Over 243,000 nationals from the Gulf region were granted ETAs in the first half of 2024, benefiting from smoother, more efficient travel to the UK for short visits.
In 2023, travelers from the USA, Canada, and Australia alone contributed £8.8 billion to the UK economy, boosting the tourism sector and local businesses. The introduction of ETAs is expected to improve border security with advanced technology, making the process more efficient while maintaining the UK’s appeal as a dynamic and diverse destination.
Eligible visitors can apply for their ETA via the UK ETA app, which is designed to be quick and easy, offering most applicants a decision within hours. Those without access to a smartphone can apply on the official GOV.UK website.
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