Introduction of the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Non-Visa

From January 8, 2025, non-visa nationals travelling to the United Kingdom, including citizens of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This measure is part of the UK’s efforts to enhance border security and improve the immigration experience for travellers.

Resident British Commissioner to St Vincent and the Grenadines Geoffrey Patton, in an interview with the API said the ETA is not a visa. He said it is an online authorisation that travellers must acquire before entering the UK and noted that the process is simple. It can be completed online or through a mobile app. The cost of the ETA is £10, (approximately EC$35).

Travellers will need to provide basic personal information, such as their passport details, and the application is expected to be processed within 72 hours. The ETA, once granted, will be valid for two years or until the traveller’s passport expires.

Applications for the ETA open on November 27, 2024. The ETA will be mandatory for all non-visa nationals travelling to the UK from January 8, 2025.

High Commissioner Patton noted that this is part of a global rollout, following successful implementation in other regions including the Middle East earlier this year.

The system is expected to help reduce the wait times at UK airports, and provide additional security by gathering passenger information in advance.

Those planning to travel to the UK after January 8, 2025, are encouraged to apply early to ensure a smooth process at immigration.(API)