UK makes electronic travel permit mandatory for visitors from 85 countries

If you are flying to Britain without paperwork sorted, your journey could end at the check-in counter. Starting Wednesday, visitors from 85 countries must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travelling to the United Kingdom, the UK interior ministry said, according to Reuters.

Under the ETA scheme, which was introduced in 2023, travellers who do not require a visa must apply online for a pre-travel permit costing GBP 16 (about USD 21.57).

The ETA scheme was extended to European visitors in April last year. It lacked strict enforcement until now. From February 25, however, it becomes mandatory.

As a result, airlines will be required to stop passengers from boarding if they do not have an ETA, eVisa or other valid documentation, the UK interior ministry said. British and Irish citizens, including dual nationals, and those with the right to live in the UK are exempt from the requirement.

Migration Minister Mike Tapp said the move was about tightening border controls. “The ETA scheme is a vital part of our work to strengthen the UK’s border security, helping to deliver a more efficient and modern service that works for both visitors and the British public,” he said, as quoted by Reuters.

The development comes as the European Union rolls out its own post-Brexit border checks for UK nationals. The EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), launched in October last year, replaces manual passport stamping with digital records. However, travellers have reported delays at some airports, and industry leaders have warned that full implementation around Easter could lead to widespread disruption.

– Ends

(With inputs from Reuters)

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