- The UK Home Office plans to increase the ETA fee by 60%, from £10 (€11) to £16 (€18).
- EU nationals must apply for an ETA starting April 2, 2025, with applications opening on March 5, 2025.
- The ETA will remain valid for two years from its issuance.
- All visa-exempt travelers, including children and infants, must obtain the ETA.
- The fee hike aims to generate an additional £269 million annually for the UK migration system.
- Tourism groups and airlines criticize the decision, citing reduced competitiveness compared to the EU’s €7 fee for ETIAS.
- Critics warn the increase may hinder the UK’s goal to attract 50 million visitors annually by 2030.
- Irish citizens are exempt from the ETA requirement.
- Applicants must use an app, provide personal details, scan their passport, and upload a photo to get the ETA.
- Starting spring 2024, UK nationals must pay €7 for the EU’s ETIAS, mirroring the UK’s move.
The UK’s decision highlights its post-Brexit immigration policies and their potential impact on tourism and travel.
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