EU CITIZENS TO PAY UK ENTRY FEE
From 2 April, citizens with European Union (EU) passports will be required to get an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
An ETA pre-clears you for entry into the United Kingdom before you arrive.
The ETA is the UK’s version of the United States’ ESTA. The ESTA is a mandatory, paid-for authorization to travel, with security clearance done beforehand.
This is in stark contrast to what Europeans were usually allowed to do. With no need for visas, EU passport holders could merely just show up at border control and enter most countries.
This requirement is also applicable to travellers from the United States, Canada and Australia.
In total, there are 48 states required to obtain ETAs before they enter the United Kingdom.
According to the UK government website, the scheme is for “short” visits to the UK of less than six months for tourism and business. There are a few other categories of ETA, including short-term study and permitted paid engagements.
An app is available to download to obtain the ETA. Payment is also available through the app.
An ETA will be valid for two years and will allow for multiple entries into the UK.
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