Britain launches electronic travel permit for EU visitors ahead of wider border reforms

From Wednesday, European visitors to Britain will need to purchase an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arriving, as the UK implements new pre-entry screening measures to tighten border controls.

The ETA scheme, already in place for non-European travellers from countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia, now extends to EU citizens. The permit costs £10 (€12) until April 9, when the price rises to £16. Irish citizens are exempt.

Approved ETAs allow multiple UK visits of up to six months over a two-year period. Applications are processed through the UK ETA app and typically approved within minutes. Travellers must submit a photo, passport details, and answer questions on criminal history and eligibility.

Airlines, ferry companies, and rail operators will be responsible for checking ETA status before boarding.

Migration minister Seema Malhotra said the expanded system shows the UK’s commitment to using technology to enhance security.

Britain welcomed 22.5 million EU visitors in 2023, up from 19 million the previous year. Airlines like easyJet said the change is unlikely to impact demand.

The move precedes similar EU rules set to take effect in October. The bloc’s Entry/Exit System (EES) will digitally record non-EU travellers’ border crossings, replacing manual passport stamps with biometric scans. That system will be followed by ETIAS, which will require non-Schengen travellers, including Britons, to obtain a permit before entry.

Currently, Britons pay about £17 for a similar U.S. travel authorisation.

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