Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme: The First Steps For The UK

An Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is being launched later in 2023 as part of the UK government's plans to strengthen the UK border through digitization. The scheme will apply to most visitors to the UK who do not need a visa for stays of less than six months, and who do not have any other immigration status prior to travelling. The idea is rooted in the concept of Universal Permission to Travel (UPT) – the requirement that most individuals must seek approval in advance of travel to the UK. And once an ETA is granted, it is valid for 2 years or when the passport expires, whichever is sooner. This approach will bring the UK in line with similar schemes already in place in the USA, Canada, and Australia (soon to be introduced in Schengen Member States).