New Electronic Travel Authorisation 2023

Qatari nationals are to be the first to expect the phasing in of Electronic Travel Authorisation in October 2023. The government aims to extend this to all non-visa nationals by the end of 2024.

What is an Electronic Travel Authorisation?

An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is an application for digital permission to travel to the UK. This will become a new requirement before the end of the year for those looking to travel to the UK but who do not need a visa. The ETA will link electronically to your passport.

Who Can use the Electronic Travel Authorisation?

All non-visa nationals (except British and Irish citizens) will be required to use an ETA when visiting the UK.

You will need an ETA to:

• Come to the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business, or study.
• Come to the UK for up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession.
• Transit through the UK – including if you are not going through UK border control.

The ETA applies to both adults and children. You will need to make separate applications when making an application for an adult and a child.

More Efficient Travel for Migrants

The new Electronic Travel Authorisation aims to make travel more efficient for those eligible. The application process is quicker than before as the entire process is digital. Most visitors will apply via a mobile app and receive a decision on their application in 3 working days.

How Much Does an Electronic Travel Authorisation Cost?

The cost is for an Electronic Travel Authorisation is £10 per applicant.

How Long Does an Electronic Travel Authorisation Stay Valid For?

The authorisation is valid for two years and can be used to make multiple trips to the UK.

How To Apply?

You can apply for authorisation on the UK ETA app, or online on GOV.UK. You can apply on behalf of yourself or others.

Each traveller must get their own ETA, including children and babies.

You will usually get a decision back in 3 working days but sometimes the decision will be quicker.

Upcoming Dates

From the 15^th November 2023, Qatari nationals will need an ETA when travelling to the UK. Furthermore, Qatari nationals will be able to apply for the authorisation from the 25^th October 2023.

From the 22^nd February 2024, non-visa nationals (excluding British and Irish nationals) will need an Electric Travel Authorisation if travelling to the UK and are a national of:

• Bahrain
• Jordan
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Saudi Arabia
• United Aran Emirates

These nationals will be able to apply for an ETA from the 1^st February 2024.

By the end of 2024, all worldwide visitors who do not need a visa for short stays will need an ETA. This includes those visiting from Europe and other nations such as America and Australia.

What To Do if Your Electronic Travel Authorisation Application is Unsuccesful?

If your application does not come back succesful, you will need to apply for one of the following:

• Standard Visitor visa (to visit the UK)
• Temporary Work – Creative Worker visa (to come to the UK as a creative worker)
• Transit visa (to transit through the UK)

For more advice, get in contact with our Immigration solicitors on 03458 941 622 or filling out our contact form.