Traveling to the UK is about to get pricier as the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rollout continues. While visitors from Europe won’t need an ETA until April, the permit became mandatory for other international travelers on January 8. Less than a month later, the UK Home Office has proposed a 60% price increase, raising the fee from £10 (€11.82) to £16 (€18.91).
The Home Office claims the increase will reduce reliance on taxpayer funding and generate £269 million (€318 million) annually. However, the tourism and travel industries have strongly opposed the move. Joss Croft, Chief Executive of UKinbound, called the price hike “a staggering blow to the UK’s tourism industry.” Similarly, Willie Walsh, Director General of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), described it as “bewildering,” warning it could harm the UK’s tourism competitiveness.
On a positive note, transit passengers connecting through UK airports without passing immigration will no longer require an ETA. This decision has been welcomed by industry leaders, including Heathrow Airport CEO Thomas Woldbye, who emphasized the importance of this exemption for maintaining competitiveness and driving economic growth.
The proposed price hike is pending parliamentary approval, but if passed, it will take effect quickly. For those planning a trip to the UK, understanding the new ETA requirements and costs will be crucial.
Source: Swifteradio.com
