UK Introduces New ETA Requirement for Visa-Exempt Travelers Including Spanish Citizens
Starting 25 February, travelers from 85 visa-exempt countries visiting the UK will face new entry requirements under the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme. This £20 digital permit applies to citizens from Spain, the US, Canada, Australia, Japan, and all EU member states, marking a significant change in UK border policy.
How the New System Works
The ETA functions as a 2-year digital visa linked directly to passports through the UK Home Office’s Border Control system. Transport operators must verify passenger ETAs via government API checks before boarding – with non-compliance penalties reaching £50,000 per journey. Industry group ABTA confirms airlines and ferry services are rushing to implement these checks, with smaller operators reportedly scrambling for third-party tech solutions.
Special Considerations for Dual Nationals
Spain’s estimated 200,000 dual UK-Spanish citizens (according to 2022 British Embassy figures) face particular complexities under the new system. Immigration experts at UK Visas and Immigration clarify:
“Dual nationals must travel on British passports to exempt themselves from ETA requirements. Using Spanish documentation triggers the £20 fee and mandatory application process, regardless of citizenship status,” explains immigration solicitor Maria Fernández of Barcelona Legal Partners.
Practical Advice for Travelers
Three essential tips emerge from UK Border Force guidance:
- British passport holders (including dual nationals) should always present UK documentation at boarding
- ETA applications require 48-72 hour processing time – don’t leave until departure day
- Children and infants require separate ETAs when traveling on non-UK passports
The Home Office confirms the system aims to mirror the US ESTA program, with future expansion planned for all visitors by end-2024. Frequent travelers should note ETAs become electronically linked to passports during first use, eliminating paperwork for subsequent trips.
For affected travelers, industry analysts recommend checking the official ETA portal before booking tickets, while dual nationals should verify passport expiration dates well in advance of travel dates.
Source: Majorca Daily Bulletin
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