A new visa-waiver entry system, Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), requiring pre-travel authorisation for visitors from over 50 countries, including the United States, has come into effect in the UK.
Travellers from dozens of countries must now pay to enter Britain after a new visa-waiver entry system took effect on Wednesday. Visitors from the United States and dozens of other countries now face a £10 fee to enter the UK.The Electronic Travel Authorisation ( ETA ) scheme – similar to the ESTA system in the United States – requires visitors who do not need a visa to enter Britain to acquire pre-travel authorisation.
and allowing stays of up to six months at a time over two years, it first launched in 2023, with Qatar, before being extended last year to five regional Gulf neighbours. Now, it has been expanded to include citizens of around 50 more countries and territories, from Argentina, Brazil and New Zealand to Japan, South Korea and Caribbean nations.With the system kicking in for them on Wednesday, they have been able to apply since last November. The scheme, aimed at tightening border security, will next be extended to dozens of EU and European countries and territories on April 2. Those citizens covered by the scheme will be able to apply for the new ETA – which is digitally linked to the traveller’s passport – via an app, from March 5. Around six million people from the United States, Canada and Australia visit Britain each year, according to the UK government. Eligible travellers will need one even if they are just using the UK to connect to an onward flight abroad. ETA also applies to children and babies. Naila Hadi, a US woman in her fifties, told AFP at London’s Heathrow Airport that the new system was “easy” to navigate. “We did it on our phones and they just scanned the passport, because this passport has a chip,… and within 20 minutes we got our approval,” said Hadi, who had arrived from New Jersey with her daughte
UK VISAS ETA BORDER SECURITY ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORISATION TRAVEL FEES
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
New entry requirements for three visa-free countriesThe new year has arrived and with it, comes some new entry requirements for SA passport holders wishing to travel abroad.
Read more »
Ghana Joins List Of African Countries Offering Visa-Free Entry To All AfricansGhana has joined a growing list of African countries offering visa-free entry to all African citizens. This decision is expected to boost tourism and travel across the continent.
Read more »
New Zealand Work Visa Changes: Streamlined Processes and Expanded FlexibilityThe New Zealand government has made significant changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program, aimed at simplifying immigration for both employers and workers. These changes include reduced experience requirements, extended visa durations, and flexible options for seasonal workers.
Read more »
More than 52,000 travellers processed at Lebombo port of entry over the weekendThe BMA said processing of cargo on both arrival and departure continues as normal, with efficient facilitation ensuring seamless movement of goods.
Read more »
Lebombo Port of Entry Operates Smoothly Amid Holiday Travel SurgeThe Lebombo Port of Entry is experiencing a smooth flow of both cargo and travelers as South Africa enters its peak travel season. The Border Management Authority (BMA) reports no significant incidents or challenges, with efficient processing and clearance of vehicles.
Read more »
Lebombo Port of Entry Remains Operational Amidst Fears of Protests in MozambiqueDespite concerns over potential protests in Mozambique following the announcement of election results, the Lebombo Port of Entry remains operational. Travellers and truck drivers are cautiously optimistic.
Read more »