Authorities now issue an eVisa to Individuals requiring a UK visa to live, work, or study in the United Kingdom.
Currently, migrants in the kingdom must have a physical immigration document. This refers to either a biometric residence permit (BRP) or a passport with ink stamps or visa stickers.
Now, immigrants can create an online account to request an eVisa or electronic visa. Unlike physical documents, the eVisa is a digital document that cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with. Moreover, it eliminates physical appearance at an embassy or consulate to acquire a visa.
The UK ETA
On the contrary, people visiting the UK for a shorter period will soon require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This also applies to UK visa holders living, studying, or working in the UK for a short stay. Beginning November 27, 2024, eligible non-Europeans can apply for an ETA for travels to the UK from January 8, 2025.
Meanwhile, eligible Europeans will be able to do so similarly beginning March 5, 2025, for travels from April 2, 2025.
The ETA is similar to other countries’ travel authorization systems such as the United States’ ESTA and Canada’s ETA. This trend reflects a growing effort among countries to modernize their borders through pre-travel screening. More importantly, it allows authorities to track and approve travelers before they arrive.
Soon, the ETA will add a layer of security and efficiency to the UK’s entry processes. Moreover, it marks a significant development for travelers and the UK border system.
According to the UK government, the ETA system will streamline the entry of visa-exempt travelers, enhancing border security and efficiency. Authorities will be able to pre-screen individuals and control entry more effectively.
The initiative aligns with the UK’s overall strategy to manage and secure borders with modern technology. It enables a “digital border” concept where border control can access and assess traveler information in advance. aims to fully digitize the border by 2025.
The rollout has begun in select countries, starting with nationals from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Meanwhile, citizens from other visa-exempt countries will follow in the program’s following phases.
Streamlining entry, boosting tourism
With the ETA, travelers can apply for the ETA online and expect processing times within a few days. The ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple entries into the UK, simplifying future trips for frequent visitors.
By streamlining entry, the ETA encourages tourism, thereby promoting economic benefits. Because it minimizes processing times, the UK can offer a more welcoming experience to visitors, boosting its tourism appeal.
What’s ahead
In the future, the UK government may expand the ETA requirement to other countries. Officials are considering additional regions, though specific countries have not yet been confirmed. This phased expansion reflects the UK’s ongoing commitment to bolstering immigration control and enhancing the traveler experience.
The ETA requirement marks a new era in UK travel, setting a high standard for border management. As the rollout continues, visitors can expect a modern, secure, and streamlined travel experience. All this while contributing to the UK’s ambitious goal of digital transformation.
