Americans can now apply for the UK ETA. When will the visa-free entry system open for Europeans?

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The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) will soon apply to millions of international visitors.

As part of plans to fully digitize borders by 2025, tourists will have to obtain an entry permit.

All eligible non-Europeans can apply for the ETA from November 27th, which will be required to enter the UK from January 8th, 2025.

This includes six million citizens from the USA, Canada and Australia.

The Interior Ministry began rolling out the system last November for nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

It has now been announced when it will also apply to Europeans.

When do EU travelers need to apply for an ETA to visit the UK?

visitors out Qatar were the first to apply for the UK’s new ETA system from November 15, 2023.

Visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council states and Jordan were the next group from February 2024.

Previously, citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates could apply for a one-time electronic visa waiver (EVW) instead of a visa to enter the UK. This cost £30 (€34.30) and was valid for up to six months.

According to the UK government, the ETA system has now completely replaced the EVW system, providing a more cost-effective option with multiple entry validity.

The ETA is now open to all nationalities other than Europeans and is required for entry from January 8, 2025.

Europeans, on the other hand, must have an ETA for travel from April 2, 2025; the application period begins on March 5th.

How do I apply for an ETA to enter the UK?

Once the program is applicable to your country, you will need to complete an online application form granting you permission to enter the UK. According to the government, most visitors can apply through a mobile app and make a quick decision on their application.

You need valid biometrics passport from an eligible country, travel details, an email address and a credit or debit card. You will also have to answer a series of eligibility questions.

Like the electronic travel authorization system (ESTA) in the USA, a small one fee is attached to the application process. This is set at £10 (€11.66).

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Travelers are advised to submit the application at least a few days before their planned trip. Approval should be granted within 72 hours.

Do I need a visa to enter the UK?

The ETA is not one visa but it grants permission to enter the country.

All visitors who are not currently required to apply for a visa must apply for an ETA before traveling. This includes those who are not currently required to apply to visit the UK – i.e. the US, Canada, Australia and others European Citizens also need an ETA for short stays.

If you do not submit the application before your trip, you may face a fine. Great Britain and Ireland Passport holder I don’t need an ETA.

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Travelers from countries that do not have visa-free entry agreements with the UK will still need to apply for the correct visa and ETA.

With a valid UK visa, your ETA is valid for up to six months or two years. This means you will not need to apply for a new travel authorization if you visit the UK again within the valid period.

Why is the UK introducing the ETA system?

ETA is part of the British plan digitize its limits at UK airports by the end of 2025.

Some passengers may be able to enter the country without using an electronic passport gate or speaking to one Border Force Officer. Instead, they will likely have to upload a photo of themselves and submit it to the Home Office before traveling.

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The regulation is intended to reduce Queues at the border“help expedite legitimate travel to the UK”.

Facial recognition Technology could be used to enable these “contactless corridors,” reports British newspaper The Times. International travelers would be required to submit biographical and biometric data such as photos of themselves faces You must go through the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system before flying.