Breaking News: The UK's plans for Entry Fee for Travelers

If London or anywhere else in the UK is on your bucket list, listen up! The UK government has recently unveiled its plans to introduce an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) visa waiver for foreign visitors. Starting this fall, travelers will need to apply and pay a nominal fee of £10 ($12.59) per applicant. This blog post will guide you through all the essential details about the upcoming ETA system, including its cost, application process, and rollout timeline. So, let's get into it!

Understanding the ETA: What You Need to Know

The ETA is an electronic travel authorization required for all foreign visitors without a visa, including travelers from the United States. Its purpose is to streamline the entry process and contribute to the UK's ambitious goal of fully digitizing its borders by 2025. By implementing the ETA, the UK aims to enhance security and ensure a seamless travel experience for visitors.

How Much Will It Cost You?

The ETA fee has been set at £10 ($12.59) per applicant, which is quite reasonable considering the convenience it offers. The authorization will be valid for two years, allowing travelers to make multiple visits to the UK during that period. British and Irish passport holders, as well as those entering the UK from Ireland, are exempt from paying the fee.

Application Process Made Easy

To obtain the ETA, travelers can either use a forthcoming U.K. ETA app or apply online through the official government website, gov.uk. Additionally, here is a helpful video on the process. Each traveler, regardless of age, must have their own ETA. The application requires entering your passport details, and a response can be expected within three business days. Once approved, the ETA will be electronically linked to your passport.

Rollout Timeline: Who Goes First?

The ETA rollout will be introduced in phases, starting with citizens of Qatar in November 2023. From February 2024, travelers from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates will also be required to apply and pay the fee. For travelers from other countries, including the United States, the ETA requirement will be implemented by the end of 2024.

The Global Trend: Travel Authorization Fees

While the ETA may seem like a new concept, many countries have plans or have already implemented similar systems to ensure smooth entry for visitors. Europe will soon launch its European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which will require a €7 fee from eligible travelers aged 18 to 70.

Where Does the Money Go?

You might wonder what happens to the funds collected through the ETA fee. In various countries, travel authorization fees serve as a means for the government to collect additional revenue to invest in local development, tourism initiatives, and sustainability projects. For instance, the Maldives charges a $6 arrival fee, which can be reduced to $3 for those opting to stay in eco-friendly guesthouses. Similarly, Brunei imposes a "sustainable development fee" of $200 per day on international arrivals.

As the UK gears up to introduce its Electronic Travel Authorisation system, travelers need to be prepared for the upcoming changes. With a modest fee of £10 ($12.59) per applicant, the ETA offers a convenient way to explore the beautiful United Kingdom. Embracing digital advancements and aligning with global trends, the UK aims to provide secure and seamless travel experiences for visitors from around the world.

So, get ready to embark on your UK adventures.