What is an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) and when and why is it needed for travelling to the UK?
In this article, your Cyprus immigration lawyers, G KOUZALIS LLC will explain to you what is an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) and when and why it is needed for travelling to the UK.
The ETA is similar to the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) system and acts as a pre-clearance for travel. This change is part of the UK’s move towards a digital border system.
You do not need an ETA if any of these apply to you:
- you have a visa
- you have permission to live, work or study in the UK (including settled or pre-settled statusor right of abode)
- you are a British or Irish citizen
- you are travelling with a British Overseas Territories citizen passport
- you live in Ireland and you are travelling from Ireland, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man
Your Cyprus Immigration lawyers, G KOUZALIS LLC would like to advise you that if you obtain an ETA you can;
visit the UK for up to 6 months, for tourism, visiting family and friends, business and short term study. It is important to note that you cannot stay in the UK longer than 6 months.
The cost for the ETA is GBP £10 per person and the ETA is valid for 2 years. The application process usually takes 3 days to receive a reply and the application is a simple process. (Please note both children and babies must also apply) Furthermore each person must apply SEPERATELY.
Information needed for the application:
Uploaded / photographs of:
Passport of the person travelling,
Picture of the face of the person travelling.
Documents / information needed to apply:
Physical passport
Access to your emails
Credit / debit card, apple pay or google pay.
How to apply:
Using the UK ETA APP available on both the APP STORE or GOOGLE PLAY
Or by visiting: https://apply-for-an-eta.homeoffice.gov.uk/apply/electronic-travel-authorisation/how-to-apply (please note you should only visit the website to apply online if you cannot use the appropriate smartphone applications)
G KOUZALIS LLC, your Cyprus immigration lawyers would like to inform you that you must apply for the ETA prior to travelling. You can travel prior to receiving the decision concerning your application but the application must be in process. It is important to note that whilst having an ETA helps streamline the visit of the UK, it does not guarantee entry into the UK. You still need to visit a Border force officer of use the ePassport gate if you are eligible to do so.
This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers are advised to consult with legal professionals for advice specific to their individual circumstances.
For more information contact G. KOUZALIS LLC, Lawyer in Cyprus at lawfirm@cytanet.com.cy, tel. 00357 23811788.