By G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
In 2025, European travelers visiting the UK without a visa will need to pay a £10 (around $13) waiver fee. This change is part of the UK's electronic travel authorization (ETA) system, which is being expanded to include travelers from all other countries, including European Union citizens. The new rules will apply to all visitors without a visa or permission to live, work, or study in the UK. However, Irish citizens are exempt from this requirement.
The UK's ETA system was initially introduced for citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, who must apply for an ETA before entering the UK. This system was aimed at closing the gap in advance permissions for travelers. From November, it will also include most other nationals, such as those from the US. By next spring, European nationals will also need to comply with this requirement. The introduction of this system marks a significant shift in the UK's travel policies post-Brexit.
UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that once the ETA scheme is fully implemented, it will provide a comprehensive understanding of those traveling to the UK. This move is seen as a step towards enhancing border security and managing immigration more effectively. However, it does raise questions about the potential impact on tourism and business travel from Europe to the UK, especially since the UK has been a major destination for European tourists.
Visa waiver schemes like this are not a new concept. The United States has had its electronic travel authorization system, known as ESTA, since 2009, which currently costs $21 and lasts for two years. Similarly, the European Union is rolling out its own system called ETIAS, set to launch in 2025, which will be valid for three years and cost travelers 7 euros (about $7.50). The implementation of these systems is part of a global trend toward more advanced and digitized border controls.
The UK's departure from the European Union in January 2020 marked the beginning of significant changes in its immigration and travel policies. The introduction of the ETA system for European travelers is a reflection of the UK's move to establish more control over its borders. This development is likely to impact the travel industry, particularly the tourism and hospitality sectors, as European travelers have historically made up a significant portion of visitors to the UK.
While the fee is relatively modest, the need for additional documentation and planning could potentially deter some travelers. The UK government, however, sees this as a necessary step in ensuring national security and managing immigration. The system will enable authorities to screen travelers in advance, identifying potential security risks and ensuring that those entering the country have the correct permissions.
The impact of this change will be closely watched, especially in the context of post-Brexit travel and trade relationships. The UK has been working to establish new trade deals and partnerships with countries around the world, and the travel authorization system is part of a broader strategy to redefine its international engagement. For travelers, it means adjusting to a new layer of bureaucracy, but for the UK, it represents a move towards a more controlled and secure border system.
