UK to Begin Implementing Electronic Border Scheme by October

Prior to a complete implementation in 2024, the UK will begin implementing its new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme for travellers from the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council and Jordan this fall.

Visitors from Qatar will be the first to be allowed to apply for an ETA starting in October. Those from the other GCC states and Jordan will be able to do so starting in February 2024.

By the end of 2024, all non-British and non-Irish nationals will be subject to the requirement.

The UK government noted in a statement on Thursday that an ETA costs “will be in line with similar international schemes, and individuals can make multiple visits to the UK over a two-year validity period”.

The Etias program of the EU will set you back €7 (£6) for a three-year period and be implemented in 2024.

For travel to the UK, citizens of the UK and Ireland do not need an ETA; however, individuals entering the UK through Ireland do. The following people are in Ireland legally, according to the government “will not need an ETA when travelling to the UK from within the Common Travel Area”.

Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick said: “Strengthening our border remains one of the government’s top priorities.

“ETAs will enhance our border security by increasing our knowledge about those seeking to come to the UK and preventing the arrival of those who pose a threat.

“It will also improve travel for legitimate visitors, with those visiting from Gulf Cooperation Council states being among the first to benefit.”

Individuals will have to submit biometric information and respond to a series of questions about their suitability as part of the application process.