Starting from November 2024, the UK government will expand its electronic travel authorisation (ETA) system, making it mandatory for visitors from most countries to obtain permission before entering the UK. This £10 fee will apply to all travellers without a visa, with full implementation expected by April 2025. These changes aim to streamline border security while impacting millions of tourists and visitors.
Topics Discussed
- Overview of the expanded ETA scheme
- New £10 travel fee for non-visa holders
- Impact on European and global visitors
- Changes for Jordanian nationals Workers
The Expanded ETA Scheme: What’s Changing?
By November 2024, all visitors to the UK who do not require a visa will need to obtain an electronic travel authorisation (ETA). Initially introduced for travellers from select Middle Eastern countries, this scheme will now apply to all non-European nationals, adding a £10 charge. From January 2025, visitors from a broader range of countries will be required to have an ETA before entering the UK.
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£10 ETA Fee for Non-Visa Holders
The UK government has confirmed that the ETA will cost £10 per person. This applies to those travelling or transiting through the UK without legal residence rights or a visa. Currently, nationals from countries like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are required to use the ETA system. However, the fee will expand to include travellers from most countries from November 2024, with European nationals required to follow suit by April 2025.
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Impact on European Nationals
The ETA scheme, set to roll out to European nationals by March 2025, will become mandatory from April 2, 2025. This move will cover all EU visitors, making the ETA a compulsory document for entering the UK, further tightening border security and ensuring detailed pre-arrival records.
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Changes for Jordanian Nationals
Effective immediately, Jordanian nationals will no longer be eligible to use the ETA system. Due to a rise in breaches of visitor rules, including asylum claims and improper use of travel purposes, Jordanian citizens will now require a full visa to enter the UK.
Conclusion
The expansion of the UK’s travel visa scheme marks a significant shift in the country’s immigration policy. With the ETA system expanding to more nationalities and set to impact millions of visitors, travellers should plan ahead and ensure compliance with these new rules. Whether you’re visiting for tourism or business, understanding the new requirements will be crucial to avoiding disruptions to your UK travel plans in 2025.
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