James Skinner
James is the Founder & Chief Executive of
CANZUK International in Vancouver, Canada
In a significant move towards enhancing border security and facilitating more accurate data collection, the UK government is set to launch the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme on October 25th, 2023.
Under this scheme, travelers who would typically not require a visa to enter the UK will need to secure digital authorization for their travel or transit within the country.
Initially, the ETA scheme will be implemented for Qatari nationals, who currently benefit from the Electronic Visa Waiver system for visiting the UK.
The ETA scheme is scheduled to replace this system for Qatari nationals, with travel commencing on November 15th. However, ETA applications can be submitted starting from October 25th. Subsequently, the scheme will be progressively expanded to include travelers from other nationalities in phases during the year 2024.
Initially, the ETA scheme will be implemented for Qatari nationals, who currently benefit from the Electronic Visa Waiver system for visiting the UK.
The ETA scheme is scheduled to replace this system for Qatari nationals, with travel commencing on November 15th. However, ETA applications can be submitted starting from October 25th. Subsequently, the scheme will be progressively expanded to include travelers from other nationalities in phases during the year 2024.
The primary objective behind the ETA system is to enable more precise data gathering concerning the number of individuals visiting the UK and their countries of origin. This, in turn, will bolster border security by allowing authorities to screen passengers before their departure, thereby providing an early means of identifying potential security threats.
It’s important to note that the introduction of an ETA is not a novel concept globally. The United States operates the ESTA scheme, while countries like Canada and New Zealand have already established their own similar systems. It has also been noted that the introduction of the ETA will further security objectives of the Five-Eyes Intelligence Alliance between the CANZUK countries and the USA, and therefore increase collaboration among the five nations.
Who needs an ETA?
With only a few exceptions, all European nationals and individuals from other countries who typically do not require a visa to enter the UK, whether for tourism or transit, will be obligated to obtain an ETA.
Additionally, Creative Workers visiting the UK for a duration of three months or less and relying on the Creative Worker Visa concession will also need to apply for an ETA.
Nevertheless, several categories of individuals are exempt from this requirement, including: British and Irish nationals; non-Irish nationals lawfully residing in Ireland who are traveling to the UK from another location within the Common Travel Area; individuals who are mandated to apply for a visa to enter the UK, as they will not need an ETA; and those who already possess a visa or alternative authorization to enter the UK, such as status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
Application process
While the introduction of the ETA system may add an additional administrative step for travelers, the application process is expected to be user-friendly, facilitated through an online form or a dedicated mobile app. The cost of an ETA is set at a reasonable £10, a modest expense when compared to the cost of obtaining a UK visa.
Travelers will be required to provide the following information: basic personal details; passport data; a recent photograph of themselves; and security-related information.
An ETA will be valid for two years or until the expiration of the applicant’s passport, whichever comes first. This allows for multiple trips to the UK using a single authorization.
While many applications may be approved within minutes, it is advisable to complete the process at least three days before the intended travel date. It’s important to note that there is no avenue for appealing a refused application. In such cases, individuals may consider submitting a new application, though it is crucial to address the underlying cause for the initial rejection.
Alternatively, they may explore the option of applying for a standard visit visa, allowing them to submit additional information and documentation to address any concerns the Home Office may have regarding their travel to the UK.
For more information, travelers can visit the UK Government website.
While notionally supportive of the UK’s introduction of an Electronic Travel Authorization scheme, CANZUK International will seek to obtain exemptions for Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens visiting the UK as the program develops, and ensure reciprocal measures are afforded to UK citizens when traveling to CANZUK countries.
It’s important to note that the introduction of an ETA is not a novel concept globally. The United States operates the ESTA scheme, while countries like Canada and New Zealand have already established their own similar systems. It has also been noted that the introduction of the ETA will further security objectives of the Five-Eyes Intelligence Alliance between the CANZUK countries and the USA, and therefore increase collaboration among the five nations.
Who needs an ETA?
With only a few exceptions, all European nationals and individuals from other countries who typically do not require a visa to enter the UK, whether for tourism or transit, will be obligated to obtain an ETA.
Additionally, Creative Workers visiting the UK for a duration of three months or less and relying on the Creative Worker Visa concession will also need to apply for an ETA.
Nevertheless, several categories of individuals are exempt from this requirement, including: British and Irish nationals; non-Irish nationals lawfully residing in Ireland who are traveling to the UK from another location within the Common Travel Area; individuals who are mandated to apply for a visa to enter the UK, as they will not need an ETA; and those who already possess a visa or alternative authorization to enter the UK, such as status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
Application process
While the introduction of the ETA system may add an additional administrative step for travelers, the application process is expected to be user-friendly, facilitated through an online form or a dedicated mobile app. The cost of an ETA is set at a reasonable £10, a modest expense when compared to the cost of obtaining a UK visa.
Travelers will be required to provide the following information: basic personal details; passport data; a recent photograph of themselves; and security-related information.
An ETA will be valid for two years or until the expiration of the applicant’s passport, whichever comes first. This allows for multiple trips to the UK using a single authorization.
While many applications may be approved within minutes, it is advisable to complete the process at least three days before the intended travel date. It’s important to note that there is no avenue for appealing a refused application. In such cases, individuals may consider submitting a new application, though it is crucial to address the underlying cause for the initial rejection.
Alternatively, they may explore the option of applying for a standard visit visa, allowing them to submit additional information and documentation to address any concerns the Home Office may have regarding their travel to the UK.
For more information, travelers can visit the UK Government website.
While notionally supportive of the UK’s introduction of an Electronic Travel Authorization scheme, CANZUK International will seek to obtain exemptions for Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens visiting the UK as the program develops, and ensure reciprocal measures are afforded to UK citizens when traveling to CANZUK countries.
Heading photo: [Getty Images]
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