Travelling to the United Kingdom will now require an extra step for millions of visitors. The country has made its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system compulsory, meaning visa-free travellers must get online approval before they even start their journey.
The rule applies to people from dozens of countries who were earlier allowed to enter Britain without a visa for short stays. From now on, they must fill out an online application, pay a fee and receive clearance before boarding a flight, train or ferry. Those who arrive at the airport without an approved ETA will simply not be allowed to travel.
The permit is not a visa. It is a digital pre-check that allows visits of up to six months for tourism, business or family trips. Once granted, it is valid for two years and can be used for multiple visits, as long as the passport remains valid.
UK authorities say the system is designed to make borders more secure and more efficient. By screening travellers in advance, officials can decide who is allowed to travel before they reach the country. The move also brings Britain in line with countries such as the United States and Australia, which already run similar pre-travel authorisation programmes.
The rollout has been gradual. The ETA was first introduced for a smaller group of nationalities and later extended to European travellers. With the transition period now over, the requirement has become fully mandatory.
British and Irish citizens, along with people who already hold a UK visa or residency, do not need to apply.
For travellers, the biggest change is the loss of last-minute trips. Travel industry experts say planning ahead is now essential, even for short holidays or quick business visits.
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