UK Govt Announced New Entry Requirements For Individuals

The UK (United Kingdom) has introduced new travel requirements for all individuals who want to enter the country. 

The UK Govt announced that Nigerians and other nationals, except Irish and British nationals, who want to enter the country need to apply for ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). 

• This new travel requirement becomes effective from 15 November 2023 and applies to everyone, including children. 
• The new travel rule means that all visa applicants who want to travel to the UK must require an ETA card before they enter or transit through the nation.  

• The UK Home Office stated that individuals who were previously able to visit the UK without a visa but are not currently legal residents in the UK require a travel permit. 

• Those who plan on visiting the UK for less than six months for business purposes, tourism, or to visit family and friends are eligible to apply for an ETA. 

• The application must be completed online before booking travel arrangements to the UK. If approved, the ETA will allow for multiple entries for up to two years or until the expiration date of the passport used for the application.

• The UK Home Office also said that travelers with valid visas may not be able to board without a valid ETA, as it is linked to passports digitally.

• According to a statement, the UK travel requirements are now changing for everyone, including children, except British and Irish citizens, who enter or transit through the UK will soon need permission before they travel. They need an ETA card to enter the UK. 

• Showing a paper copy of your confirmation is unnecessary, but keeping the confirmation email for your records is good. 

• It’s important to note that having an ETA allows you to travel to the UK, but it does not guarantee entry. You will still need to go through passport control at the border to gain entry into the UK.

• To avoid any issues, ensure that you show the same passport you used to apply for your ETA and that your passport remains valid throughout your entire stay.