As of 2 April, the UK is changing its entry rules for European Union citizens. All travellers from the EU, with the exception of Ireland, will now be required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before crossing the UK border.
The cost of the permit will be 12 euros, but it will increase to 19 euros from 9 April. You can apply online through the UK ETA mobile application or on the official website of the British government gov.uk. The permit will be valid for two years and will allow an unlimited number of entries to the United Kingdom.
The ETA procedure is similar to the US ESTA system. Applicants have to upload a passport photo, a selfie, and answer questions about their background and possible criminal convictions. The British government claims that most permits are issued in minutes, but in some cases, the check can take up to three business days.
Who is exempt from ETA?
- Holders of British and Irish passports
- People with leave to remain in the UK
- Students under 18 travelling in groups from France
- Passengers in transit through the UK who do not go through passport control
The changes are part of the UK’s overall strategy to digitise its migration system, aimed at strengthening border security after Brexit.
