International travellers will soon need to complete pre-arrival digital authorisation to enter the UK and EU countries, as both regions implement new border control systems.
From January 8, 2025, the UK will require visitors from countries including the US, Canada and Australia to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before arrival. The scheme will extend to EU nationals from April 2, 2025, though UK and Irish citizens and valid visa holders will be exempt.
The UK ETA will cost £10 and typically process within hours, though it may take up to three business days. Once approved, it allows multiple entries for up to six months over a two-year period or until passport expiry.
Seema Malhotra, UK Minister for Migration and Citizenship, said the system would deliver “a border that’s efficient and fit for the digital age” through pre-screening whilst ensuring smooth travel.
Separately, the EU will launch its European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) in spring 2025, requiring visa-exempt travellers from 60 countries to obtain authorisation costing €7. The EU is also developing an Entry/Exit System (EES) using biometric data, delayed from late 2024 to 2025.
Critics have raised concerns about accessibility for younger and less affluent travellers, whilst others worry about losing traditional passport stamps and potential technical failures.
The new systems aim to modernise border controls and reduce waiting times amidst surging post-pandemic travel, whilst enhancing security through improved traveller tracking and identity verification.
(İNCYPRUS)
