The United Kingdom has introduced a fully digital travel system, changing the way visitors enter the country.
From Wednesday, the new system officially started, and it brings some important updates for international travellers.
Under the new rules, Indian travellers must now get a mandatory e-visa, while people from visa-free countries must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before travelling.
Earlier, visas were issued as paper stickers placed inside passports, but this system has now been completely replaced with a digital process.
Contents
UK Moves to a Fully Digital Visa System
The UK government is shifting toward a completely digital immigration system. This means physical visa stickers will no longer be used.
Instead, travellers will need to apply for visas or travel authorizations online before their trip.
However, one step still remains the same. Applicants will still need to visit an application centre for biometric registration, where their fingerprints and photo will be taken.
There is also some good news for travellers. During the application process, you will not need to leave your passport behind, which makes the process easier.
UK Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Mike Tapp has also advised travellers to carefully check their documents and travel permissions before boarding their flight.
How Much Will the ETA Cost?
The UK government says the ETA fee will remain competitive compared to other countries.
It is expected to be close to the price of similar travel authorizations such as:
The US ESTA, which costs around $40
The European Union’s ETIAS, which is expected to cost around 20 euros
This means travellers applying for a UK ETA can expect the fee to fall somewhere in a similar price range.
Millions Already Using the Digital System
As part of this major upgrade, many immigration services have already moved online.
People who earlier used documents such as:
Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs)
Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs)
Visa vignette stickers or passport stamps
have now been shifted to the online system managed by the UK Home Office.
According to official data, more than 10 million e-visas have already been issued under the new digital process.
Travellers who have accounts with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), including those under the EU Settlement Scheme, must make sure their online account contains the latest passport details.
ETA Now Required for Travellers From 85 Countries
The new ETA rule now applies to travellers from 85 countries, including visa-free nations such as the United States, Canada and France.
In some cases, travellers may even need an ETA just for transit. If a passenger needs to go through UK passport control for a connecting flight, they might still need the authorization.
Since the program started in October 2023, the response has been huge:
More than 19 million travellers have successfully applied for ETA
The UK government has collected over £383 million in fees
Officials say this money will be reinvested to improve border and immigration systems.
What This Means for Travellers
The UK says the new system is an important step toward building a contactless and fully digital border system.
The main goals are:
Faster processing at borders
Stronger security
A smoother travel experience for visitors
Tourists and short-term visitors will still be able to travel to the UK, but they must complete all digital formalities before departure.
So if you are planning to visit the UK soon, make sure your online visa or ETA approval is ready before boarding your flight.