"A new approval process for visitors to the U.K. is tripping up some travelers and upending vacation plans, especially for those with a prior criminal conviction.
Travelers are now obligated to apply online for a travel authorization before entering the U.K., under new requirements that took effect in early January. The electronic-travel authorization, or ETA, process can be completed online or through an app and costs about $13.
The European Union has proposed similar rules.
The U.S. implemented a similar system in 2009 to help keep out terrorists. Visitors from the U.K., Europe and other countries must answer a several questions before they travel, including about any criminal convictions, and pay a fee. Travelers also are fingerprinted on arrival.
Some Americans say the new process in the U.K. isn't smooth.
On social media, travelers reported issues uploading photos and scanning their passport to fill out the online form for the ETA. Others have encountered scam or fraudulent websites advertising services to obtain the ETA that cost far more than what the U.K. government charges.
The U.K. government says most people should receive a response to their application for a travel authorization within three working days, if not sooner.
The new requirements were designed "to keep [the U.K.] safe while ensuring visitors have a smooth travel experience," U.K. Minister for Migration and Citizenship Seema Malhotra said last year." [1]
1. World News: New Rules On Travel Hit Visitors To the U.K. Passy, Jacob. Wall Street Journal, Eastern edition; New York, N.Y.. 20 Feb 2025: A7.
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