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UK Proposes Increase in ETA Fee Amid Changes for Transit Passengers

The United Kingdom has announced plans to raise the fee associated with its Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) program, which was recently implemented. This proposal comes just weeks after the ETA officially took effect, with modifications now in place for transit passengers who will not be leaving the airport.

As of January 8, travelers from various nations, including the United States, have been required to apply for an ETA, which currently costs £10 (approximately $12.28). However, the UK government has moved to suggest increasing this fee to £16 ($19.65).

In a recent update, the UK government announced that travelers who do not pass through border control will no longer be required to pay the ETA fee.

The Home Office articulated the government’s vision for this change as part of a broader initiative aimed at streamlining the immigration process. They stated, “ETAs will deliver a more streamlined, digital immigration system which will be quicker and more secure for the millions of people who pass through the UK border each year.” However, acknowledging feedback from the aviation sector, the government has agreed to temporarily exempt passengers transiting airside from this requirement.

Willie Walsh, director general of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), expressed strong opposition to the proposed fee increase, labeling it “bewildering.” He voiced concerns that such a hike would harm the UK’s attractiveness as a tourist destination, stating, “If implemented it would be a self-inflicted blow to the UK’s tourism competitiveness.” Walsh emphasized the importance of keeping the UK accessible for travelers, suggesting that high costs before arrival could dissuade potential visitors.

In conjunction with the UK’s plans, the European Commission is set to implement its own electronic travel authorization system later this year, known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS), with a fee of €7 ($7.27).

Additionally, the United States operates the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), available to travelers from countries included in the Visa Waiver Program, with an application fee of $21.

Source
www.travelandleisure.com