UK Introduces Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Requirement for Visitors, Effective November 15, 2023.

By Caroline Ameh

The United Kingdom (UK) has recently implemented new entry rules for travelers, set to take effect on November 15, 2023. These rules apply to individuals from nations other than the UK, British citizens, and Irish citizens. To enter the UK, travelers, including children, must submit an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) application.

This ETA requirement applies to various categories of travelers, such as tourists, businesspeople, those visiting family and friends, and individuals on visits shorter than six months. The application process for the ETA is conducted online, and once granted, it remains valid for multiple journeys over a period of two years or until the passport used for application expires.

The UK Home Office emphasizes that even travelers with valid visas may not be allowed to board without a valid ETA, as the ETA is digitally linked to the traveler’s passport. In essence, this means that anyone who was previously eligible to visit the UK without a visa and is not already legally resident in the UK will need an ETA for their visit, provided their stay is shorter than six months and falls within the permitted categories, including tourism, business, and short-term study.

It’s important to note that while an ETA grants permission to travel to the UK, it does not guarantee entry. Travelers will still need to go through passport control at the UK border, and it’s crucial to use the same passport for both the ETA application and the actual entry into the UK. Ensuring that your passport remains valid for the entire duration of your stay is also essential. These changes reflect the UK’s updated travel requirements, aimed at enhancing border security and control.