World Immigration News

UK immigration update: Electronic Travel Authorisation scheme rollout

Release Date: 2024-11-27
Media: Farrer ＆ Co
Summary: In October 2023, the UK Government introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, requiring all visa-exempt foreign nationals to obtain prior authorization before traveling to the UK. Initially applied to nationals from Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, the scheme will extend to all non-European nationals starting January 2025, and to European nationals in April 2025.

The ETA will apply to citizens from countries not needing a visa to visit the UK, such as the EU/EEA, the US, Australia, and Canada. The ETA allows multiple visits for up to six months and is valid for two years or until the passport expires. The application costs £10, and the process is mostly automated, taking up to three working days for approval.

Applications may be refused based on criminal convictions, immigration violations, or past visa refusals. In case of refusal, applicants will need to apply for a UK Visit Visa.

For more details or advice on the ETA, travelers are encouraged to seek legal assistance.
Tags: United Kingdom

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