The UK introduces the ETA scheme, beginning with Qatar and expanding to other countries. It's mandatory for visa-exempt travellers, even during Heathrow transit, aiming to enhance global border security. British travellers remain unaffected, but concerns arise regarding the impact on UK airlines and tourism, notably in Northern Ireland.

Planned Changes to UK Visitor Entry Requirements

The UK is introducing a new mandatory online permit called the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for all non-visa overseas visitors to the UK, except Irish citizens, by the close of 2024. The ETA is inspired by the US Esta system and is electronically linked to the traveller's passport. 

It is valid for multiple trips within two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. The roll-out commenced with Qatari nationals on November 15, 2023, with nationality being the determining factor. 

The program will extend to nationals from Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE on February 22, 2024, with plans for a global implementation by the end of the following year.

Obtaining an ETA for Travelers

To obtain an ETA for travellers, you can apply online through a government website or utilise the dedicated app available.

Here are the steps on how to apply for an ETA:

• Go to the government website or download the UK ETA app.

• Create an account and provide your personal information, such as your name, passport number, and travel dates.

• Upload a passport photo.

• Answer a set of questions about your travel plans and criminal history.

• Pay the ETA fee.

• Submit your application.

You will typically receive a decision on your application within three days. If your application is approved, you will receive an ETA, which is electronically linked to your passport. You will need to show your ETA to the border officer when you enter the UK.

Here are some tips for applying for an ETA:

• Make sure you have a valid passport.
• Have a passport photo ready to upload.
• Answer the questions in the application form accurately.
• Pay the ETA fee using a valid credit or debit card.
• Submit your application well in advance of your travel date.

ETA Verification and Checks

The verification of Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) will vary depending on the mode of transportation and the traveller's location.

• For passengers travelling on ferries from France to Dover, Eurostar trains to London, and Eurotunnel shuttles to Folkestone:

UK Border Force staff will perform checks while travellers are still in Continental Europe.

• For most travellers, airlines and ferry companies are responsible for verifying the ETA status before passengers depart for the UK.

Upon arrival in the UK, the UK Border Force will recheck the ETA and may ask additional questions to determine whether entry is permitted. It is important to note that possessing an ETA does not guarantee entry to the UK.

Non-Irish and British travellers from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland will not be subjected to checks but are encouraged to have an ETA regardless.

ETA Requirement for Transit Passengers

The government's decision to mandate Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) for all connecting travellers sets it apart from the common convention observed globally. 

Typically, passengers transiting through international hubs, not undergoing passport control, only need to meet the requirements for their final destination.

However, under the ETA scheme, all passengers, excluding British and Irish nationals, will require an ETA even if they are simply transferring from one flight to another at UK airports like Heathrow.

Government's Perspective

The government's perspective is based on the following key points:

• The ETA scheme is intended to enhance border security by providing detailed information about individuals planning to travel to the UK. This information can be used to identify and prevent the entry of individuals who may pose a threat, including those in transit through the UK.

• Requiring transit passengers to obtain an ETA is essential to prevent transit from becoming a potential loophole that individuals might use to circumvent the ETA requirement. Without an ETA requirement for transit passengers, individuals could simply book a connecting flight to the UK without the intention of actually leaving the airport. This would allow them to enter the UK without meeting the ETA requirements.

• The ETA system is similar to the Esta system required by the United States for connecting passengers transiting at American airports. The Esta system has been in place for many years and has been effective in preventing individuals who pose a threat from entering the US.

Transiting in the US and ETA Distinction

When transiting in the US, all passengers must clear Customs & Border Protection and be legally admitted to the country. This means that they must go through immigration and customs, even if they are just changing planes. Passengers are also allowed to stay in the US for up to 90 days without a visa, which could potentially allow for extended stays.

Implications of the ETA requirement for transit passengers

The UK government's decision to require all transit passengers to obtain an ETA could have a number of implications, including:

• Increased administrative red tape and costs for airlines and passengers. Airlines will need to check that all transit passengers have an ETA before they board their flight, and passengers will need to pay the ETA fee.

• Reduced competitiveness of London Heathrow Airport as a transit hub. Heathrow is one of the world's busiest transit hubs, and the ETA requirement could make it less attractive to passengers who have the flexibility to choose alternative routes.

• Reduced choices and potential fare increases for British passengers. Some routes and flight frequencies may become unviable due to the reduced number of transit passengers, which could lead to reduced choices and potential fare increases for British passengers.

Objections and Concerns

Objections and concerns have been raised about the UK's requirement for all transit passengers to obtain an ETA, particularly within the inbound tourism industry and in Northern Ireland.

Inbound tourism industry

The inbound tourism industry is concerned that the ETA requirement will create additional barriers for visitors to the UK, particularly those from the EU.

This is because EU citizens are already required to carry passports instead of their national ID cards, which has already excluded more than 200 million individuals from entry. 

The ETA requirement adds an additional layer of complexity and bureaucracy for visitors, which could lead to a decline in inbound tourism.

This raises a number of concerns:

• Individual tourists may unintentionally violate the law by crossing the border without an ETA.

• Tour groups may opt to exclude Northern Ireland from their Irish itineraries, as it would be too difficult to ensure that every passenger on the bus has an ETA.

• The ETA requirement could create a barrier to cross-border trade and cooperation between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Potential Impact of the ETA Scheme

Currently, around 60 percent of non-UK tourists visiting Northern Ireland also explore the Republic of Ireland, a statistic reported by the Northern Ireland Tourism Alliance. They express concerns that the ETA scheme could have a significantly adverse effect on tourism across the entire island.

The group estimates that visitors from Europe and North America might decline by as much as 25 percent. They fear that global tour operators may choose to exclude Belfast and Northern Ireland from their itineraries due to the increased complexities.

The UK government has affirmed that there will be no exemptions for tourists who intend to remain solely within the island of Ireland. 

FAQS

What is the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)?

The UK ETA is a new digital travel permit introduced by the government. It is designed to enhance border security and will be mandatory for visitors from select countries who do not require a visa to enter the UK.

Who is required to obtain the UK ETA?

All non-visa overseas visitors to the UK, excluding British and Irish nationals, will be required to obtain an ETA. This includes travellers in transit through the UK.

What is the purpose of the UK ETA?

The ETA is aimed at increasing knowledge about individuals seeking entry to the UK, preventing the arrival of potential threats, and enhancing border security.

How will the ETA affect transit passengers at UK airports?

Transit passengers at UK airports, even if they are not entering the UK, will be required to obtain an ETA. This is a departure from the common practice in many countries where transit passengers do not need additional permits.

Are there concerns about the impact of the ETA scheme?

Yes, there are concerns, particularly in Northern Ireland, where the introduction of the ETA scheme is expected to impact tourism negatively. It could lead to a decline in the number of visitors, affect tourism businesses, and potentially lead to the exclusion of certain destinations from tour itineraries.

How can travellers apply for the UK ETA?

Travellers can apply for the UK ETA online through the official government website or by using the dedicated app available.