UK Stops Visa Entry Into The Country… Announces New Requirements

The United Kingdom (UK) has introduced significant changes to its travel requirements for individuals seeking entry into the country.

Effective from November 15, 2023, all travelers, except British and Irish nationals, including children, will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before entering or transiting through the UK.

This new rule applies to a wide range of visitors, including those who were previously eligible to visit the UK without a visa and were not already legally resident in the country. Travelers embarking on visits shorter than six months, for purposes such as tourism, business, visiting family and friends, or transit, will also need to secure an ETA.

To obtain an ETA, applicants must complete the application process online before making any travel arrangements to the UK. Once granted, an ETA will be valid for multiple journeys over a two-year period or until the expiration date of the traveler’s passport.

One crucial aspect of this change is that travelers with valid visas may not be allowed to board their flights without a valid ETA. This digital authorization is digitally linked to the traveler’s passport, emphasizing the importance of obtaining it before travel.

The UK Home Office has clarified that an ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK but rather grants permission to travel. Travelers will still need to go through passport control at the UK border for entry. Therefore, it is essential to use the same passport for both ETA application and entry and ensure that the passport is valid for the entire duration of the stay.

In summary, these updates reflect the UK’s commitment to enhancing security and ensuring that individuals visiting the country comply with the new ETA requirement. It is vital for prospective travelers, especially Nigerians, to familiarize themselves with these changes and complete the necessary ETA application process before planning any trips to the United Kingdom.