The United Kingdom has made it mandatory for certain travellers to obtain an online travel permit before arrival. From Wednesday, visitors from 85 countries must secure approval in advance. Those without proper clearance will not be allowed to travel to the UK.
Under the new rules, travellers who do not need a visa must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation. The permit must be obtained online before departure. The application costs 16 pounds per person.
The system was first launched in 2023. It was later expanded to European visitors in April last year. Until now, enforcement had been limited. However, from February 25, the UK will strictly apply the rule.
Airlines will check documents before boarding. Passengers without a valid ETA, eVisa, or other approved papers will be denied boarding. Officials say this step will prevent travel issues upon arrival in the UK.
British and Irish citizens are exempt from the new system. Dual nationals and people with legal residency rights in the UK also do not need the permit. Authorities clarified that the scheme targets short-term visitors only.
UK Migration Minister Mike Tapp said the measure will strengthen border controls. He added that the system supports safer and more efficient travel. According to him, the new process benefits both visitors and the public.
The decision comes amid wider border reforms in Europe. The European Union recently introduced its Entry/Exit System for UK nationals. The system creates digital travel records instead of stamping passports.
The UK formally left the EU in 2020. Since then, both sides have updated border procedures. Some travellers have reported delays at airports due to the EU’s new system.
Industry leaders have warned about possible disruption during peak travel periods. Easter holidays could test the system’s full implementation.
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Authorities are advising travellers to apply early. Officials say early applications will reduce the risk of delays. The UK government has urged airlines and passengers to follow the updated requirements carefully.
