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The UK also announced that Nigerians and other citizens, except British and Irish nationals, wishing to enter the country must apply for Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
The new rule becomes effective from November 15, 2023, and applies to everyone, including children.
The new travel rule implies that all visa applicants wishing to travel to the UK need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) card before they enter or transit through the country.
The UK Home Office said persons who need the travel permit are those who were previously eligible to visit the UK without a visa and not already legally resident in the UK.
Also listed for ETA are those on visits shorter than six months, business people, tourism, and those visiting family and friends. Applicants are required to apply online before booking any travel to the UK. Once granted, it will be valid for multiple journeys over two years or until the passport one is applying with expires.
The UK Home Office, in a statement, further said travellers with valid visas may not be allowed to board without a valid ETA, as the ETA is digitally linked to travellers’ passports.
The statement reads: “The UK travel requirements are changing. Except for British and Irish citizens, everyone, including children who enter or transit through the UK, will soon require permission before they travel.
“This means that if you were previously eligible to visit the UK without a visa and not already legally resident in the UK, you will need an electronic travel authorisation (ETA), your stay must be shorter than six months and could include tourism or visiting family and friends, transit, business, and short term study.
“You do not need to show a paper copy, but it may be helpful to prove the confirmation email for your own records while an ETA grants you permission to travel to the UK, it does not grant you entry. So, you would still need to go through passport control at the border to enter the UK.
“Make sure you show the same passport you used to apply for your ETA and that your passport is valid for the whole of your stay.”
Before we delve deeper, it is vital to understand what
exactly the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is.
Definition
The ETA is a digital system that grants permission for
individuals to travel to the UK. This travel permit is electronically linked to
the traveler’s passport and must be obtained before booking any journey to the
UK. It’s designed to enhance border security and facilitate a smoother entry
process for visitors.
Validity
The ETA is valid for multiple journeys over a span of two
years, or until the passport it is linked to expires, whichever comes first. It
offers convenience as travelers don’t have to apply for it every time they
visit the UK within its validity period.
Application Process
Applying for the ETA is a relatively simple process that can
be completed online. You will be required to provide personal details along
with your passport information. Once approved, it permits you to travel to the
UK, although it doesn’t guarantee entry, which is determined by the border
control authorities.
Who Needs an ETA?
A fundamental aspect to consider is who exactly needs to
apply for this ETA. The new rules make big changes and affect many people who
want to visit the UK.
Citizens from Other Countries
Citizens of countries other than the UK and Ireland are the
primary targets of this new rule. This includes individuals who were previously
able to visit the UK without a visa, provided their stay was for a short
duration, usually less than six months.
Business Professionals and Tourists
Business professionals visiting the UK for work-related
activities and tourists exploring the scenic beauty of the UK are required to
obtain an ETA. This also extends to individuals visiting their family and
friends in the UK.
Short-Term Students
Students who plan to undertake a short-term course in the
UK, lasting less than six months, are also required to apply for an ETA before
their journey.
Transiting Passengers
Even individuals transiting through the UK need to possess a
valid ETA, ensuring a smooth transition through the UK borders.
Children
An essential note is that this requirement also applies to
children, making it necessary for minors to have an ETA linked to their
passports.
Applying for the ETA
Here, we break down the steps to apply for an ETA in a
simplified manner.
Step 1: Online Application
Start your application process online by visiting the
official UK government website. Make sure to have all your necessary documents,
like a valid passport, ready.
Step 2: Filling in Details
Fill your personal details, including information found in
your passport. Ensure all data is accurate to avoid potential issues.
Step 3: Approval and Confirmation
Once the application is submitted it undergoes a review
process. Upon approval, you will receive a confirmation email. It is advisable
to keep this email handy for your records, although you are not required to
present a physical copy during your travel.
Step 4: Ready to Travel
With the ETA approval, you are now ready to book your travel
to the UK. Remember, the ETA should be obtained before making any travel
arrangements to avoid complications.
Valid Visas and the ETA
Individuals who already possess a valid visa for the UK
might wonder how the new ETA affects them. The UK Home Office has clarified
that having a valid visa alone may not be sufficient.
Existing Visa Holders
Even if you have a valid visa, you must obtain an ETA to
travel to the UK. This is because the ETA is a separate requirement that is
digitally linked to your passport.
Boarding Your Flight
It is essential to note that without a valid ETA, you might
be denied boarding. Therefore, securing an ETA is a crucial step in your travel
preparations.
Traveling with Children
When traveling with children, special attention needs to be
given to ensure compliance with the new rules. Here, we detail the steps and
considerations for families traveling with minors.
Obtaining ETAs for Minors
Parents or guardians must apply for an ETA on behalf of the
children. This process is similar to the application process for adults, and
each child requires an individual ETA linked to their passport.
Ensuring a Smooth Journey
To guarantee a smooth journey, ensure that the children’s
passports are valid for the entire duration of the stay in the UK. Also, carry
any necessary documents that might be required during border control checks.
Important Dates
Awareness of the key dates surrounding the implementation of
the new rules is crucial to plan your travel accurately.
Implementation Date
The new rule comes into effect on November 15, 2023. It is
essential to mark this date and ensure compliance with the new regulations if
you plan to travel on or after this date.
Prior Preparations
Considering the new rules, it is advisable to start your
preparations well in advance to avoid last-minute rush and potential delays.
Q1: What is the ETA?
A1: The ETA, or Electronic Travel Authorisation, is a new
digital system introduced by the UK to enhance border security and facilitate
smooth entry for visitors.
Q2: How long is the ETA valid for?
A2: The ETA is valid for multiple entries over two years or
until the passport it is linked to expires, whichever comes first.
Q3: Do children require an ETA?
A3: Yes, children, including minors, require an ETA to
travel to the UK.
Q4: Can I travel to the UK with a valid visa but without an
ETA?
A4: No, having a valid visa alone is not sufficient. You
must also obtain an ETA to travel to the UK.