The UK will introduce mandatory electronic travel permits for visitors from 85 countries starting February 25, 2024, requiring them to apply online and pay a fee to avoid travel bans.
Beginning February 25, 2024, visitors from 85 countries will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before traveling to the UK. According to the UK interior ministry, those who fail to secure this permit will risk being denied boarding upon arrival. Previously announced in 2023, the ETA had seen limited enforcement and exemptions for European travelers.
The Electronic Travel Authorisation requires travelers from visa-exempt countries to apply and pay a fee of 16 pounds ($21.57) in advance. This shift towards more stringent entry requirements reflects the UK's broader effort to regulate and monitor incoming travelers. The post-Brexit context enhances the significance of such measures, especially when considering safety concerns and immigration policy adjustments.
As the implementation date approaches, travelers from the affected countries will need to take immediate action to comply with these new regulations, ensuring they have the necessary permits prior to their journeys. This policy change is an essential step for the UK in establishing a comprehensive entry system that aligns with global security practices and aims to better control immigration into the country.
