The united kingdom’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) requirement for short-term travellers from Barbados comes into effect today.
Barbadian travellers now entering the UK will be required to complete an ETA application at least 72 hours prior to arrival at any UK border.
The ETA, which cost £10, is considered a major step forward in digitising and streamlining the UK border. It is applicable to travellers who do not require a visa to travel to the UK and who intend to spend six months or less in the country. During the ETA process, travellers will answer a set of questions and provide some basic personal information.
This can be done easily by downloading the ‘UK ETA app’ from Google Play, Apple App Store or by visiting GOV.UK. Applicants usually get a decision within three working days but may get a quicker decision if they use the UK ETA app.
This expansion follows the successful rollout of ETAs to Gulf Cooperation Council nationals last year. In the first half of 2024, more than 243 000 Gulf nationals were issued with ETAs and can now benefit from smoother, easier travel to the UK for short trips. (PR)