Australians wanting to visit UK attractions like Stonehenge must now possess a two-year ETA. Photo: stock
Australian visitors to the United Kingdom will have to first apply for electronic travel authorisation (ETA) as of today (January 8).
The UK Government says that from April, all European nationals, who do not need a visa for short stays and who do not already hold UK immigration status, will also need an ETA.
It says eligible visitors can apply through the UK ETA app or via www.gov.uk. It will cost £10 ($20), permits multiple trips and lasts for two years or until the holder’s passport expires.
Visitors will need the ETA to visit the UK which the Australian Government’s SmartTraveller advisory website also points out.
The UK government says the ETAs are digitally linked to a passport and allow for stays of up to six months at a time.
UK Minister for Migration Seema Malhotra describes the ETA as “a significant step forward” in border control in the digital age.
“Through light-touch screening before people step foot in the UK, we will keep our country safe while ensuring visitors have a smooth travel experience,” she says.
“Digitisation enables a smooth experience for the millions of people who pass through the border every year, including the visitors we warmly welcome to the UK who are predicted to contribute over £32 ($64) billion to our tourism economy this year.
“The worldwide expansion of the ETA demonstrates our commitment to enhance security through new technology and embedding a modern immigration system,” Malhotra said earlier in the year.
The UK government says the rollout follows a successful one earlier to Gulf Co-operation Council nationals last year.
A dual citizen with British or Irish citizenship will not need an ETA, the government says.
The US already operates a similar system, Australia (and New Zealand) do as well, and the European Commission is planning to introduce a similar system this year.
