UK immigration update: March 2023
The UK is set to introduce the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme in 2023 (date to be confirmed), as part of the government’s new universal “permission to travel” requirement.
What does the new UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) mean?
Under the new scheme, non-visa travellers to the UK will have to secure authorisation in advance of travel by completing an online form and paying the application fee.
The UK ETA scheme is comparative to the US (ESTA) and Canada (eTA). The EU is also planning to introduce ETIAS, its own pre-travel authorisation programme, later this year.
Under current rules, certain categories of travellers visiting the United Kingdom do not require a visa for short stays or other specified types of immigration status.
Who does the new UK ETA it apply to?
The new “permission to travel” requirement, means all travellers to the UK (other than British and Irish residents) who are visiting the UK or transiting through the UK and who do not currently require a visa for short stays (known as “non-visa nationals”) or who do not have a pre-existing immigration status, will need to apply for, and be granted, permission in advance.
ETA will not be required by British or Irish citizens or anyone with lawful permission to enter or remain in the United Kingdom.
Anyone intending to enter the United Kingdom for transit purposes or as tourists for Tourism, Business, Short-Term Study, or Medical Treatment will need a UK ETA.
How will the new UK ETA work?
Those with an approved UK ETA will receive a digital travel authorisation to enter the United Kingdom. This method will allow UK government to tighten security checks before an individual’s arrival into the UK.
Airlines will be required to verify that travellers have a valid ETA prior to entering the UK. Passengers will need to present documentary proof of their approved ETA to their carrier prior to travel, either in paper or digital form.
The Home Office will utilise interactive “advance passenger information” (API) to determine whether an individual has the necessary permission to come to the UK and will notify the airline of the status of travellers prior to flying.
What happens if you are refused a UK ETA?
It is unclear as to what happens if you are refused a UK ETA, and whether you can apply again or whether you instead are required to apply for a visa as is the case in the US and other countries.
When will the ETA come in effect and will there be a cost?
We await the exact date of implementation and fee.
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