When will the ETA launch? UK’s border system could face delays

The UK is soon set to introduce the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which will apply to visitors from destinations including Europe, Australia, the US and Canada.

It requires tourists to gain permission to enter the country as part of plans to fully digitise its borders by 2025.

The system is scheduled to be in place for all required nationalities from 2 April 2025, with some having to comply by January. 

However, industry leaders are urging the British government to delay the introduction of the ETA, particularly as it might come into force at the same time as the much-delayed EU Entry/Exit System (EES).

“We’ve asked can we not have two systems introduced at once,” Eurostar’s general secretary and chief strategic partnerships officer Gareth Williams told the Lords’ Justice and Home Affairs Committee last week. 

‘Uncertainly’ over introduction of EES affecting ETA

Williams acknowledged that it is “difficult for the Home Office to make plans amid this uncertainty”, referring to the introduction of the EES. 

The launch date for the system was set as 10 November, but the EU confirmed earlier this month that the introduction would be delayed. 

There is now no official date for the launch, but it is unlikely to come into force before 2025. 

“We’re seeing a huge amount introduced at the border – interactive AI, the ETA, EES, and [next year] the European Travel Information and Authorisation System [ETIAS],” Williams said.

“Our concern is the systems don’t join up. They ask for very similar information through different channels, and the more you require the same information, the less compliance you get.

“We’ve asked the UK and EU to take a step back.”

When will the ETA be introduced?

The UK has taken a phased approach to introducing the ETA. 

The Home Office began rolling out the scheme last November for nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

If the system is not delayed, it will open up to all other nationalities, except Europeans, this November and be required for entry from 8 January 2025.

Europeans, meanwhile, will be required to have an ETA for travel from 2 April 2025, with applications opening up in March. 

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How do I apply for the ETA and how much does it cost?

To receive the ETA, you will need to fill in an online application form. Most visitors will be able to apply using a mobile app with a swift decision on their application, according to the government.

You’ll need a valid biometric passport from an eligible country, travel details, an email address and a credit or debit card. You will also have to answer a set of suitability questions.

Like the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) in the US, a small fee is attached to the application process. This will be set at £10 (€11.66).

Travellers are advised to apply at least a few days before their planned journey and approval should be granted within 72 hours.

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