The UK’s new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system has sparked discussion in travel circles since the implementation of the first phase which kicked in on January 8.
Lynette Machiri, Customer Experience Leader at Flight Centre South Africa, says: “It’s crucial to understand that South African passport holders are not affected by the new ETA system, which is specifically designed for nationals from visa-exempt countries. South Africans must continue following the existing visa application process for UK travel.”
What to do if travellers need an ETA?
The ETA is mandatory for all visa-exempt foreign nationals visiting the UK, except for Irish nationals. “It doesn’t matter where you are departing from or country of origin – it’s your nationality that counts,” says Machiri.
Important details
- It is £10 (R230) per application. However, the UK’s Home Office proposed on January 16 that the ETA fee be increased by 60%, which would increase the fee to £16 (R364). This proposal has sparked criticism across the business travel and aviation industries.
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Valid for two years or until a traveller’s passport expires (whichever comes first).
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Everyone travelling will need an ETA, including infants and children.
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At London Heathrow, airport transit passengers who are visa-exempt do not need an ETA. However, this exemption by the UK’s Home Office will remain under review by the UK Home Office, according to The Independent.
What can travellers do with an ETA?
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Stay up to six months for tourism, visiting friends and family, business or short-term study.
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Spend up to three months in the UK on the Creative Worker visa concession.
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Transit through the UK, even when travellers are not going through border control.
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Make multiple visits within the validity period.
How to apply
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Use the UK ETA app or visit www.gov.uk.
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Travellers can apply on behalf of others.
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Standard processing time is three working days.
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ETA is electronically linked to travellers’ passports.
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Successful applicants receive email confirmation.
Important notes
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Once the ETA is fully implemented, travellers must have approval before they travel.
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If travellers’ ETA is refused, they will need to apply for an appropriate visa instead.
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If travellers apply for, and receive, a new passport, they will need to get a new ETA.
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The granting of an ETA does not mean automatic entry into the UK. It allows travellers to travel to the UK.
Travellers may be refused if they:
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Have a current UK deportation or exclusion order.
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Have a significant criminal history.
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Have previously overstayed in the UK.
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Have outstanding debts to the UK.
The UK government is implementing this significant change to its border control system in phases.
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November 27, 2024: Initial introduction
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January 8: Non-European countries
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April 2: European countries. However, travellers can start to apply for an ETA from March 5, as reported by Travel News.
