Beginning February 25, visitors from 85 countries, including Germany, will need to apply for an electronic entry permit (ETA) to enter the UK, with a fee of £16, under new regulations announced by the British government.
Starting from February 25, the United Kingdom will implement stricter entry regulations requiring visitors from 85 countries, including Germany, to obtain an electronic entry permit (ETA) prior to traveling. The British Home Office has made it clear that this rule applies to anyone who does not require a visa for entry, highlighting that travelers must acquire the ETA online at a cost of £16, or risk denial of boarding by airlines. Exceptions to this requirement are made for British and Irish citizens.
The introduction of the ETA system is part of the UK's larger initiative to enhance border security, as stated by Migration Minister Mike Tapp. This change is particularly significant following Brexit in 2020, which ended the free movement of people between the UK and EU countries. As a consequence of leaving the EU, the UK is moving towards tighter immigration controls, emphasizing the need for pre-approval for visitors from nations that previously benefitted from more lenient entry conditions.
Similarly, the European Union is also implementing a new border control system affecting British citizens, underscoring the mutual changes in travel regulations that have arisen post-Brexit. These adjustments represent a broader trend towards implementation of stringent immigration processes, reshaping the dynamics of international travel between the UK and EU nations. The repercussions of such measures are likely to impact travel norms and could lead to reduced tourism and exchange between the regions as travelers face new financial and administrative barriers.
